The Grand National, one of the most prestigious and challenging horse races in the world, has been a hallmark of British equestrian sport since its inception in 1839.

Held annually at Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool, the event is famous for its gruelling 4 miles and 514 yards (6.907 km) distance, as well as its 30 formidable fences that test both horse and rider. It is also a favourite among those who bet on horse racing. Over the years, it has produced legends, with some of the most remarkable victories being achieved by the oldest horses in the competition.

While younger horses often dominate horse racing due to their physical prime, a select few veterans have defied the odds to etch their names into Grand National history. This article explores some of the oldest horses to ever win the Grand National, showcasing their resilience, stamina, and sheer willpower.

The oldest horse to ever win the Grand National is Peter Simple, who triumphed in 1853 at the incredible age of 15. Trained by Tom Cunningham and ridden by jockey Tom Oliver, Peter Simple had already experienced the demands of the Grand National, having previously won the race in 1849.

His 1853 victory remains unmatched in terms of age, as no horse older than 15 has won the race since. Peter Simple's longevity and ability to remain competitive for so long in such a demanding race speaks volumes about his extraordinary toughness and durability.

A true icon of the Grand National, Manifesto is regarded as one of the greatest horses to ever compete in the event. He won the race twice, first in 1897 and again in 1899, the latter at the age of 11. Manifesto was a Grand National specialist, competing in the race a record eight times between 1895 and 1904, finishing in the top four on seven occasions.

His longevity and ability to compete at a high level well into his second decade made him a legend in the sport. At 11, Manifesto proved that experience and intelligence on the course could often outshine youthful speed.

Sergeant Murphy, the winner of the 1923 Grand National, stands out as one of the oldest horses to capture the title, doing so at the age of 13. Sergeant Murphy's win was an emotional and historic moment, as he became the first American-owned horse to win the Grand National.

Trained by George Blackwell and ridden by jockey Capt. Tuppy Bennett, Sergeant Murphy's success came after multiple attempts at the race, proving his tenacity and adaptability. His triumph at such an advanced age remains one of the most inspiring stories in Grand National history.

Another notable winner was Why Not, who claimed victory in the 1894 Grand National at the age of 12. Why Not had shown consistent form throughout his career and was expertly ridden by Arthur Nightingall to secure the victory.

His win at an advanced age, especially considering the physical and mental strain of the Grand National, further solidified his reputation as one of the most durable horses of his era.

Caughoo was an Irish-bred horse who famously won the 1947 Grand National at the age of 12 under jockey Eddie Dempsey. Known for his resilience, Caughoo's win came under challenging weather conditions, with thick fog enveloping the course.

His ability to navigate the treacherous conditions and outperform younger rivals solidified his place among the Grand National's veteran champions.

In modern times, Amberleigh House became one of the most famous older horses to win the Grand National when he triumphed in 2004 at the age of 12. Trained by the legendary Ginger McCain, who had previously trained the iconic three-time Grand National winner Red Rum, Amberleigh House was a seasoned competitor.

Ridden by jockey Graham Lee, Amberleigh House produced a remarkable late surge to win the race, showcasing his stamina and staying power over the grueling Aintree course.

Named after the famous fence at Aintree, Valentine won the Grand National in 1847 at the age of 11. While he might not be as widely remembered as some of the other older winners, his victory is noteworthy for his age and his place in the race's early history.

A more recent example of an older horse winning the Grand National is Neptune Collonges, who claimed the title in 2012 at the age of 11.

Trained by Paul Nicholls and ridden by jockey Daryl Jacob, Neptune Collonges secured victory in one of the closest finishes in Grand National history, winning by just a nose.

His win as an 11-year-old adds to the list of veterans who have defied the odds in this legendary race.