The horse racing world is mourning the loss of a true underdog champion. Noble Yeats, the stunning 50-1 longshot who captured the 2022 Grand National, has died at age 11 following a bout of colic.

His victory at Aintree remains one of the sport's most memorable fairy tales. Ridden by amateur jockey Sam Waley-Cohen in his final career ride, Noble Yeats surged to a historic win, delivering a storybook ending that captivated fans worldwide.

"He gave us one of the great days of our lives and fulfilled our dreams," said Waley-Cohen, reflecting on their iconic partnership. "He was brilliant for us and was one of those special horses."

Owned by Robert Waley-Cohen, who had purchased the gelding just two months before his National triumph, Noble Yeats was enjoying a peaceful retirement. "He was living the life of a retired horse in the field with [2011 Gold Cup winner] Long Run and [2011 Grand National runner-up] Oscar Time," Robert Waley-Cohen shared.

Despite round-the-clock care after falling ill, the beloved champion could not be saved. His legacy, however, as the ultimate outsider who conquered racing's toughest test, will gallop on forever.