Lacy, Breeder of Persian Force, Dies at Age 89

Tom Lacy, breeder of 2022 July Stakes winner (G2) and young Tally-Ho Stud sire Persian Force (IRE), 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 Phoenix Sprint Stakes (G3). He also gave the late Pat Smullen early experience with his race-riding career. Lacy bred Persian Force alongside son Barry. The son of Mehmas (IRE) then went on to win the Newmarket group 2 alongside top-level placings in the Phoenix Stakes (G1), Prix Morny (G1), and Middle Park Stakes (G1). He finished fourth in the 2022 Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint (G1T) at Keeneland. The brother to Weatherbys Super Sprint Stakes winner and Richmond Stakes (G2) third Gubbass has completed his third season at Tally-Ho. Another son of Lacy's, Tony, is vice president of sales at Keeneland. Tom 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 Tuesday, July 15, with the funeral taking place Wednesday at St. Peter's Church, Rhode at 1 p.m.