TWENTY-ONE years ago, in 2004, Mark Johnston had a memorable year, though it was twinged too with disappointment and sadness.

Twelve months after Attraction (Efisio) was rated the best two-year-old filly of her year, Johnston celebrated Shamardal (Giant’s Causeway) being ranked the best juvenile colt of his generation, three pounds higher than Dubawi (Dubai Millennium). What an influence both these colts would go on to have on the thoroughbred breed.