Repeat Pardubicka win for Tiumen
It was a close call, however, as Vana, 57, eased his mount down in the dying strides and just held on by a short head from Amant Gris.
The two principals had the famous cross-country chase in the Czech Republic to themselves over the last few of the 32 obstacles.
Amant Gris was bidding to win the race after being disqualified for taking the wrong course two years ago, but was denied by Tiumen, who was trained as well as ridden by Vana.
Sole British challenger Mr Big, trained by Charlie Mann, was always towards the rear in the hands of Noel Fehily after making a mistake early on in the four and a quarter mile marathon.
