After disputing the lead with Bright Beam (entered in the race as a pacemaker for the absent Mill Reef) he opened up a clear advantage approaching the straight. With Rheingold struggling, Brigadier Gerard emerged as Roberto's only serious challenger but after getting to within a length of the Derby winner the favourite could make no further progress. Roberto drew away in the final furlong to win by three lengths from Brigadier Gerard in a new course record time.
Following a tight race with Bright Beam (who was entered as a pacemaker for Mill Reef), he gained an advantage near the finish line. With Rheingold struggling, Brigadier Gerard emerged as Roberto's main challenger but could not close the gap after being within a length of the Derby winner. Roberto extended his lead in the final furlong to win by three lengths from Brigadier Gerard, setting a new course record time.