Jane Mangan’s William Hill blog: Pic-ture perfect at Ascot

Ascot, Saturday

The Ascot Chase (3.36pm) might only have four runners, but it looks a fascinating race. I’m going to take on L’Homme Presse as I wasn’t that impressed by him at Lingfield and I like Pic D’Orhy to serve it up to him.

He goes really well at Ascot and this race looks to be set up nicely for him. He looks a bit of value to turn over the favourite for Paul Nicholls and title-chasing Harry Cobden.

Haydock, Saturday

Over at Haydock, I thought my fellow William Hill ambassadors Gavin Cromwell and Sean Flanagan had a good chance in the Grand National Trial (3.15pm) with Yeah Man.

He was a real eye-catcher at Ascot last time and runs off the same mark of 130 here. He stays all day and I think this is a good piece of placing from Gavin. I can’t believe the handicapper didn’t raise him for the run last time and he should go well over a trip that will suit.

Gowran Park, Saturday

He was a non-runner last week so hopefully Lark In The Morning runs in the opening maiden hurdle (1.42pm). He’s run some nice races in maiden hurdles already and this looks a good chance to get on the scoresheet. He could emerge as a contender for the Boodles and, if that is to be the case, then he’ll need to be winning this.

Punchestown, Sunday

I like the look of Buachaillbocht in the 2m7f hurdle (4.10pm). Ted Walsh’s charge got nine pounds for winning over course and distance last time and, although he won by only half a length, I thought he was better value than that. He’s a horse on the improve and he could still be ahead of the handicapper.

Mister Policeman might not have turned into the Grade 1 chaser that people thought he might be, but he now qualifies for this Rated Novice Chase (1.35pm). It looks a good spot for him and he might just have too much ability for his rivals here.

We’llhavewan does look to have a great chance in the Grand National Trial (2.35pm). He might be three pounds out of the handicap, but he still looks unexposed and you’d imagine Paul Townend will know him pretty well, having been trained by his Dad, Timmy, before he moved to Willie Mullins.

Paul doesn’t do 10 stone very often and his mount could still be a few pounds ahead of the handicapper. He’s been well-found in the market but there looks to be plenty in his favour.