Brigadier Gerard stands as one of the greatest racehorses in British history, a champion whose name evokes excellence, courage, and near-perfection. From his unbeaten two-year-old season through his legendary clashes with rivals like Mill Reef, and his dramatic comeback after his only defeat, Brigadier Gerard’s career is a benchmark for brilliance on the track.
Early Days and Meteoric Rise
Foaled in 1968 and trained by Major Dick Hern, Brigadier Gerard was bred by John Hislop and named after a character from Arthur Conan Doyle’s stories. He was a beautifully balanced bay colt, known for his excellent temperament and athleticism. Ridden throughout his career by Joe Mercer, Brigadier Gerard quickly showed signs of greatness. As a two-year-old in 1970, he won all his starts, including the prestigious Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket, hinting at the dominance to come.
The Legendary Three-Year-Old Season
The 1971 season saw Brigadier Gerard step into the spotlight. He started by winning the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket, defeating two other future legends, Mill Reef and My Swallow, in what is still considered one of the greatest renewals of the race. This victory was not just about maintaining an unbeaten record—it was a demonstration of his superiority over the best of his generation.
He followed up with wins in the St James’s Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot, the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood, the Goodwood Mile, the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot, and the Champion Stakes at Newmarket. His versatility was remarkable, excelling from a mile up to ten furlongs, and he consistently beat top-class opposition with a blend of speed, stamina, and tactical brilliance.
Four-Year-Old Glory and Only Defeat
Brigadier Gerard returned as a four-year-old in 1972, and his dominance continued. He won the Lockinge Stakes at Newbury, the Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot, and the Eclipse Stakes at Sandown. In a bold move, he stepped up to a mile and a half for the first time in the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot, winning with his trademark determination.
His only career defeat came in the inaugural Benson and Hedges Gold Cup (now the Juddmonte International) at York, where he finished second to Roberto. The loss did little to tarnish his reputation—if anything, it highlighted the unpredictable nature of racing at the top level and the courage required to take on all comers.
Brigadier Gerard bounced back with victories in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes and the Champion Stakes, ending his career with 17 wins from 18 starts—a record that stands among the very best in the sport.
Racing Style and Legacy
Brigadier Gerard was renowned for his acceleration, tactical intelligence, and the way he responded to pressure. Whether tracking leaders or making all the running, he had an indomitable will to win. His partnership with Joe Mercer was pivotal, built on trust and mutual understanding.
He was rated 144 by Timeform, making him the highest-rated British-trained horse of the 20th century until Frankel surpassed him decades later. His wins came by wide margins, and he was rarely asked for more than he needed, yet he always found extra when challenged.
The Rivalry with Mill Reef
Brigadier Gerard’s rivalry with Mill Reef is legendary, though they only met once—when Brigadier Gerard prevailed in the 2,000 Guineas. Both horses went on to dominate their respective distances, and their parallel careers captured the imagination of the racing public. Many still debate what might have happened had they clashed again over different distances, but Brigadier Gerard’s supremacy at a mile and ten furlongs was never in doubt.
Retirement and Influence
After retiring in 1972, Brigadier Gerard stood at stud and continued to influence the breed. His impact on British racing is measured not just in his victories, but in the way he won—combining grace, power, and a relentless will to win.
He is remembered as a horse who set the standard for greatness, inspiring generations of fans and horsemen. Statues, races, and countless tributes ensure that his legacy endures.
Watch the Video
Relive every major race and the unforgettable moments that made Brigadier Gerard a true icon of the turf:
