Welsh National 2014: Emperor's Choice wins at Chepstow

Emperor's Choice (left) won the Welsh National by a short head

Emperor's Choice denied Benvolio and Glenquest in a thrilling finish to win the Welsh Grand National at Chepstow.

The seven-year-old looked to have given victory to Glenquest after an error in the home straight.

But the Irish challenger ran out of steam after a big leap at the last, and Aidan Coleman guided Emperor's Choice home by a short head in front of Benvolio, ridden by Sam Twiston-Davies.

"I've ridden some big winners in my career but this tops it," Coleman said.

The Venetia Williams-trained horse, a 9-1 chance, took victory as Glenquest finished third, two-and-a-half lengths back.

Previous winner Monbeg Dude briefly threatened in the straight and claimed fourth place.

Coleman added: "I've never had a feeling like that when the photo was called. It's such a prestigious race and to win it for Venetia and the team is great. These are great owners of ours.

"Venetia is a world-class trainer and she deserves better horses."