Noble Yeats: A Racing Legend’s Journey

Noble Yeats died at the young age of 11 following a bout of colic. Before this tragic end, he had already made a significant mark in the world of horse racing.

He won the 2022 Grand National as a remarkable 50-1 outsider. This victory was notable not just for the odds but also because he became the first seven-year-old to win the Grand National since Bogskar in 1940.

Sam Waley-Cohen rode Noble Yeats to that historic victory, fulfilling a lifelong dream. “He gave us one of the great days of our lives and fulfilled our dreams,” said Waley-Cohen, reflecting on the emotional weight of that win.

Throughout his career, Noble Yeats won a total of seven races. His last race occurred at Leopardstown during the 2024 Christmas festival. He was retired due to arthritis at the age of nine, which marked a premature end to his racing career.

However, Noble Yeats’ story took a heartbreaking turn when his colic condition became apparent on April 15, 2026. Just one day later, on April 16, he passed away while living at his owner’s stud farm in Oxfordshire.

Robert Waley-Cohen described the final moments: “He looked very uncomfortable on Wednesday so the vet came out and everybody was up all night treating him and hoping he would pull through, but unfortunately he went the other way. It was a grim moment.” This statement underscores the suddenness of his decline.

The Waley-Cohens plan to plant a tree above Noble Yeats’ ashes as a tribute—an enduring reminder of their cherished champion.

Experts in equine health note that colic is often unpredictable and can have devastating consequences for horses. The loss of Noble Yeats highlights both the fragility of these athletes and their profound impact on their owners and fans alike.

Despite his untimely death, Noble Yeats’ legacy will continue through memories and tributes from those who loved him. His ability outstripped his looks, proving that true talent can shine through any circumstance.