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.

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Soldier In Milan clinched victory in the Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse, winning by an impressive 16 lengths. The race, held on Easter Monday, showcased the horse’s dominance in a field of 30 competitors.

Trained by Emmet Mullins, Soldier In Milan was the pre-race favorite at odds of 6-1. Donagh Meyler rode the horse to victory, marking Mullins’ first win in this prestigious race.

Showurappreciation finished in second place, while The Enabler and Argento Boy took third and fourth, respectively. Monbeg Genius, who initially led the race, ultimately finished fifth.

The race covered a distance of three miles and five furlongs, testing the stamina and skill of all participants. Soldier In Milan’s victory was particularly notable given that he had only run five races prior to this event.

Meyler expressed his joy, stating, “I had a lot of ups and downs this season with horses not winning, getting beaten on horses and in stewards rooms but this makes up for it all.”

Mullins commented on the horse’s condition leading up to the race, saying, “He was fit and well. Funnily enough, I know he went off favourite, but I told Paul ‘everything is good, he’s happy, he’s healthy, he’s fit but I’ve seen him in better order.'”

He further added, “A well-backed favourite winning an Irish National is something special and he was greatly received here today. It’s an honour and a privilege.”

The Irish Grand National is renowned for its unpredictability and drama, and this year’s event lived up to that reputation.

Looking ahead, Soldier In Milan may compete in the Aintree Grand National next year, a route that has proven successful for other horses in the past.

Details remain unconfirmed.

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