MORE than 18 months after his death, highly-respected Scone racing identity Noel Leckie continues to receive plaudits for his service to the “sport of kings”.
Even though the former race club chairman passed away at the age of 64 in January, 2017, he was still at the forefront of the 2018 NSW Country and Provincial Racing Awards at the Four Seasons Hotel on Friday night.
Mr Leckie received the Simon Nivison Special Achievement Award posthumously for his significant contribution to not only the local fraternity but the industry as a whole.
He was instrumental in turning the town’s premier cup meeting into the prestigious two-day carnival it is today; and behind the push for increased prizemoney and getting more [money] to improve tracks throughout NSW.
Mr Leckie spent 23 years on the Scone Race Club committee and more than 20 of them as either vice-chairman or chairman.
“His passion for, and knowledge of, the thoroughbred breeding and racing industry was incredible – a very astute man,” former CEO Sarah Wills said.
“Noel’s influence at the Scone Race Club is immeasurable and the support and advice he gave me in my time there was always appreciated.
“The enormous success of the standalone carnival at Scone is a testament to his foresight and exceptional leadership skills.
“He will be remembered for all of this and much more.”
Mr Leckie’s acclaim capped off a terrific function for the Upper Hunter racing community.
Successful mentor Brett Cavanough took home Country Trainer of the Year while his prized galloper The Monstar collected Country Horse of the Year.
Neighbouring Muswellbrook was named Country TAB Race Club of the Year, too.
The Country recipients of the 2018 Awards:
• Simon Nivison Special Achievement Award: Noel Leckie
• Country Horse of the Year: The Monstar
• Country TAB Race Club of the Year: Muswellbrook Race Club
• Community Race Club of the Year: Narrandera Race Club
• Outstanding Achievement Award: Shoalhaven City Turf Club
• Outstanding Achievement Award: Coonamble Jockey Club
• Country Trainer of the Year: Brett Cavanough
• Country Jockey of the Year: Ben Looker
• Country Apprentice Jockey of the Year: Cejay Graham
• Country Approved Rider of the Year: Ricky Blewitt
