Royal Ascot Day Three: Kevin Blake Tips 22/1 NOLA SOUL for Britannia Stakes

Day three of Royal Ascot, headlined by the Gold Cup, brings a mix of high-class racing and intriguing betting opportunities. Racing analyst Kevin Blake has highlighted three selections for the Wednesday card, with the Fozzie Stack-trained NOLA SOUL emerging as a 22/1 outsider in the Britannia Stakes (5.00pm).

NOLA SOUL, a son of Justify purchased for $220,000 at Keeneland as a foal, impressed on debut in a seven-furlong maiden at Leopardstown. The colt displayed notable stamina and a long, slow stride that could prove advantageous on Ascot’s stiff, straight track. Blake believes the horse, who took control inside the final furlong to win with a bit to spare, is sure to improve with experience and could deliver a strong performance.

The Britannia Stakes is described as one of the week’s toughest handicaps. Blake also fancies JAMESTOWN (22/1) in the same race, a son of Ulysses who has improved with each of four starts. The David Marnane-trained runner finished a close second to Bobby McGee in a strong handicap at Naas in April before winning by seven lengths at Dundalk. Marnane has a strong record at Royal Ascot, having previously won the Wokingham and Royal Hunt Cup.

In the Hampton Court Stakes (5:35pm), Blake tips Aiden O’Brien’s ENDORSEMENT as the form pick. The Wootton Bassett colt has shown progressive form this season, finishing close to Derby winner Christmas Day and Group 1 winner Pierre Bonnard in trials before winning the King George V Cup at Leopardstown by seven lengths. Despite a step up in class and drop back in trip, Endorsement looks well placed to continue his progression under Ryan Moore.

The day’s feature race is the Gold Cup (4.20pm), a staying test that always captures the imagination. Earlier action includes the Chesham Stakes (2.30pm), where stamina is key over seven furlongs. All races are being shown live on Sky Sports Racing.