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Narrandera Race Club and the Southern Districts Racing Association has lost a trailblazer in the local training ranks with the passing of Leone Vrieling.

Mrs Vrieling, 71, followed in the footsteps of her father RTJ Smith as a trainer in the SDRA for more than 40 years.

Leone was known as a successful trainer of cast-offs and problem horses, as well as some well-bred ones she had at times.

She trained at her Avanel property on the outskirts of Narrandera close to the racecourse and her favourite horse, Tovarish, won cups and held track records right around the region.

Abbadab did the same winning seven races for the stable and sprinters Achill Lass and Sweetie Darling also contributed.

Leone always had her horses' best interest at heart and cared for them at a high standard, always turning out her gallopers in excellent shape.

Upon her retirement, Leone joined the NRC committee and eventually became president of the Club. During that period, she served on the SDRA committee and was the first lady to do so.

Leone presided over Narrandera Race Club guiding it through the magnificent function centre development which was a huge step for the Club.

Leone's contribution to racing in the district and beyond was enormous at all levels and she will be missed by all.

NRC's condolences are extended to her husband Arne and daughter Alarna.