Persian Force breeder and former jockey and trainer Tom Lacy dies aged 89

Tom Lacy: breeder of Persian Force and former jockey and trainer has died aged 89

Tom Lacy, the breeder of July Stakes winner and young Tally-Ho Stud sire Persian Force, has died at the age of 89.

A former prominent jockey as well as trainer - he sent out future influential broodmare Ingabelle to win the Group 3 Phoenix Sprint Stakes - he also gave the late Pat Smullen early experience with his race-riding career.

Lacy bred Persian Force alongside son Barry and the son of Mehmas when on to win the Newmarket Group 2 alongside top-level placings in the Phoenix Stakes, Prix Morny and Middle Park Stakes. The brother to Weatherbys Super Sprint Stakes winner and Group 2 Richmond Stakes third Gubbass has completed his third season at Tally-Ho.

Another son of Lacy's, Tony, is the vice president of sales at Keeneland.

Lacy died after a brief illness surrounded by his family at his home. He is survived by his wife of 58 years Peg (nee Behan), with whom he had six children in Tony, the late Brian, Barry, Susan, Emma and Claire. He is predeceased by his twin sister Mary-Louise, sister Alice and brother Frank.

He will repose at Larkin’s funeral home in Edenderry this Tuesday, with the funeral taking place on Wednesday at St. Peter’s Church, Rhode from 1pm.

Persian Force breeder and former jockey and trainer Tom Lacy dies aged 89

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