Tony Williams’ funeral on Tuesday; Kiwi-bred in good touch for Group One; Frankel foal sets Irish record.

Tony Williams’ funeral on Tuesday

The funeral service for the late Tony (TG) Williams will be held at the Ellerslie Racecourse next Tuesday at 2pm.

The former Group One-winning jockey passed away on Wednesday night at the age of 58.

Williams’ successful riding career was cut short when he was involved in an eight-horse fall at Rotorua in January, 1984, and as a result of injuries received he was confined to a wheelchair.

He had ridden 321 winners and enjoyed Group One success aboard Lucozade in the Avondale Cup and on Secured Deposit in the New Zealand St Leger.

As a mark of respect for Williams, former riders competing in the Classic Jockeys’ Series at Te Rapa on Sunday will wear black armbands.

Kiwi-bred in good touch for Group One

New Zealand-bred Éclair Big Bang is a strong chance on Saturday to continue his sire Savabeel’s outstanding run of form.

The four-year-old steps up to Group One company in the $A750,000 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m) at Ascot off the back of a last-start victory at Flemington.

From the very much in-form Morphetville stable of Phillip Stokes, Éclair Big Bang has a Gr.3 Caulfield Guineas success to his credit from his five career wins.

He is a Karaka-bought son of Savabeel, who produced two of the leading three lots, including the sale-topper at $460,000, at this week’s NZB Ready to Run Sale.

Frankel foal sets Irish record

The brilliant Frankel has continued his record-breaking ways.

A filly by the unbeaten multiple Group One winner sold for $2.8 million at Goffs November Sale – a new mark for a foal at public auction in Ireland.

The youngster from Frankel’s first crop is out of the English and Irish 1000 Guineas winner Finsceal Beo and was purchased by Dermot Farrington Bloodstock on behalf of an un-named client.