Yesterday’s swift resignation of Lee Freedman took many people by surprise but those closest to the sable insist there will be no lag during the handover period.

Far from it in fact, they are hoping the change of direction will serve to kick start a stable that has been falling behind its own lofty standards over the past couple of season.

Antony Freedman is the man tasked with getting them to that point and the third bother in the trio, Michael, says he’s prepared to do just that.

Michael himself is a trainer, currently in his fourth year in Singapore, he says Anthony has been a core part of the stable even if Lee has always been the figurehead.

“He’s really been Lee’s right-hand man since Lee first got his licence in Yass and then moved to Warwick Farm,” he said.

“Anthony was the first to make that move with him.

“I was still a kid at school then, but I remember how big a thing it was when Anthony made that move with Lee.

“Anthony’s been integral in the selection process of yearlings (to buy) and that being a real expert area of his, he’s been comfortable in a behind-the-scenes role for the past 25 years plus.

“But I know he and Lee are really excited about Anthony taking the business into its next step.”

Anthony has been the top dog in his own right before, back in 1992 he ran a satellite stable out of Randwick Racecourse.

During that period he enjoyed success, most notably with Marscay which won the 1993 Group 1 Golden Slipper.

Anthony remains undaunted about the challenge that faces him, instead he’s thrilled to finally get his chance at the helm of one of Australia’s most famous racing operations.

“I see this as a great opportunity and I’m really excited to be taking charge,” he said.

“Having Lee to assist me will be of a great benefit and the owners we have discussed this with have been very supportive of our decision.

“We are very confident these changes and the ongoing support of our very loyal owners will return the Freedman name back to the top of Australian racing.”