AINTREE — Neptune Collonges won the British Grand National by a nose on Saturday in one of the closest finishes in the history of the world's toughest steeplechase.

The 33-1 shot gave trainer Paul Nicholls his first National triumph after coming from behind to beat Sunnyhillboy on the line in a photo finish.

Neptune Collonges is the first gray National winner since Nicolaus Silver in 1961.

The race had a dramatic beginning as well as it was delayed by favorite Synchronised unseating jockey Tony McCoy minutes before the start. Synchronised then fell early in the race.