The Punt Daily: three pre-Christmas fancies to back

BANKER

Unowhatimeanharry (2.25 Ascot)

Late-blooming 9yo who found further progress to make up into top staying hurdler last season, including when winning this race; as good as ever in Aintree win and Newbury second (only his second defeat in 12 runs for Harry Fry) this season and sets a very good standard, a few pounds clear of the others here. (Spotlight)

GOOD THING

Cap Du Nord (3.20 Haydock)

Didn't jump fluently but travelled exceptionally well before winning on his handicap debut at Sandown earlier this month. James Bowen's 5lb claim reduces his 9lb penalty and, with a very light racing weight, this improving four-year-old can follow up. (Tom Collins)

DARK HORSE

Veinard (3.35 Ascot)

Gordon Elliott has a terrific record in British handicap hurdles and he has won this race twice from four runners - at odds of 25-1 and 14-1. His Veinard is one of those strong travellers who doesn't always find a great deal, but he has some quality big-field form in Ireland, including a hampered second to subsequent Royal Ascot winner Thomas Hobson, and he can go well at a decent price. (Paul Kealy)

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