Brigadier Gerard's groom recalls the day brilliant Guineas winner came of age

His devoted groom Laurie Williamson describes it as the 'Mayday Massacre' and while that might be a shade unkind on Mill Reef and My Swallow, the 1971 2,000 Guineas was the first real clue that Brigadier Gerard would turn out to be one of the very best horses of the 20th century.

The meeting of the three stars at Newmarket 50 years ago had been eagerly anticipated at Dick Hern's yard ever since Brigadier Gerard had won the Middle Park in 1970 to earn a mighty official rating of 131, although the betting for the Guineas revolved around Mill Reef and My Swallow, who were rated 132 and 133 respectively.

In a select field of just six, Brigadier Gerard's performance was a moment of sporting greatness, one which would only be enhanced as Brigadier Gerard and Mill Reef went on to compile a phenomenal collection of big-race successes.

Describing the decisive moment, Williamson says: "Joe Mercer raised his arm just the once and, though it took a stride or two for the Brigadier to respond, it was soon clear that this one, gentle reminder had been all that Brigadier Gerard needed and he lengthened his stride with an explosive power that is one of the most memorable sights in horseracing.

"In no more than a dozen strides he brushed aside the two colts who had dominated European racing all the previous season. When he drew level with Mill Reef, Geoff Lewis, who had just decided he had My Swallow covered, knew in an instant the game was up. The battle was lost."

Read more:

Brigadier Gerard: a defeat never to be forgotten and a paragon of the Flat

Ian Balding pays tribute to Mill Reef 50 years after his birth

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