Jane Mangan’s Royal Ascot William Hill Blog: Day Three

William Hill ambassador Jane Mangan previews Day Three of Royal Ascot.

Royal Ascot, Thursday

Whistlejacket, Aidan O’Brien’s leading runner in the Norfolk (2.30pm), must amass a serious resumé before he shakes off the title of “Little Big Bears’ little brother” but from the evidence we have seen to date, this horse may be capable achieving independence! He improved from his debut and looked a proper ball of speed when winning at the Curragh. He’s physically very well developed for a juvenile and is one of Ireland’s best two-year-olds in my opinion. He’s my NAP of the day.

As someone who appreciates a top pedigree, I have kept a very close eye on Diamond Rain who contests the Ribblesdale Stakes (3.45pm). By Shamardal out of an Oaks winner in Dancing Rain, I have been very impressed with both her starts to date and would have actually fancied her for the Oaks had she lined up there. Instead, connections opted to wait for Ascot and that move could be rewarded this afternoon. I think she’s very good and is definitely the one they all have to beat here.

The Britannia (5.05pm) is one of the biggest challenges of the week for punters and one that I relish! I have been impressed with Follow Me on his two starts this season for Ross O’Sullivan. He came from France as a maiden but earned some solid placed form. Most recently, he won a Curragh handicap off 93 and runs today off 7lbs higher. This is an extremely progressive horse who should have no issues up at a mile. He’s sure to run a big race.

The Hampton Court (5.40pm) is an interesting event in which I like the Brian Meehan trained Jayarebe. He may have disappointed at Chester last time but not every horse acts around that tight track. If we look closely at his Fielden Stakes win, he comprehensively accounts for Ambiente Frienndly, Gaspar De Lemos and the reopposing Caviar Heights. Connections have always held this horse in high regard, so much so that they threw him into Group 1 company after winning his maiden last season. He probably wouldn’t stay 12F so these conditions should prove ideal for what could be a big run from an unexposed horse.