NATIONAL HUNT | 2021-22 Ante-post Longshots to consider

With the summer jumps season in full swing, the countdown to the National Hunt winter jumps calendar has already begun for some.

The ante-post markets for the biggest National Hunt contests are currently wide open, with punters hoping to snag a big odds winner at the earliest opportunity.

Our team have made a few early predictions for the major races in the upcoming jumps season.

Here are a few Ante-post longshots to consider in the jumps sphere.

King George – Saint Calvados (25/1 – Various)

After finishing fourth in the King George last season, Saint Calvados is now under the guidance of Paul Nicholls who has landed this contest a record 12 times.

It was his first effort at three miles and the gelding gave a good account of himself, but he looked to run out of stamina in the home straight.

That experience should benefit him and he could well thrive under his new trainer, with 25/1 being an eye-catching price at this stage.

Cheltenham Gold Cup – Imperial Aura (40/1 – BetVictor)

Carrying the famous silks of Imperial Commander, Imperial Aura carries a high level of potential and he could well deliver over three miles for Kim Bailey next season.

The eight-year-old has a Cheltenham Festival success under his belt already and was stepped up into Grade 1 company for the first time back in March.

He has only run over three miles once but he should continue to impress, with a 40/1 price for the Gold Cup currently holding some value at this stage.

Grand National – Cepage (50/1 – Various)

Venetia Williams knows what it takes to win the Grand National, and Cepage could fit the bill come next April.

The nine-year-old has been tackling three-mile trips for the last two seasons and he could well have more to offer over the longer distances next term.

The gelding is high in the ratings but he could well be the Williams’ yard representative in this contest should he continue to impress over fences.