Warm Tributes Flow For Karen Leek

VICTORIAN greyhound racing is today in mourning following the sad passing of revered industry participant Karen Leek, aged 69.

Countless tributes have begun flowing since news filtered through of Leek's passing which is being investigated by Victorian Homicide squad detectives.

In greyhound racing circles Leek meant so much to so many, leaving an indelible mark on the greyhound racing industry Australia wide.

Growing up in Warrandyte where her family owned the general store, Leek was introduced to greyhound racing at just 13 years of age.

And it was a career path that saw her never look back.

Throughout her hugely successful career, pioneering the female training ranks, Leek's Devon Meadows property has been the breeding ground for some of the superstar's of Australian greyhound racing, including Bewildering, Moreira and Nolen just to name a few.

In 2010, Karen landed her first group race victory with Din's Son in the Shepparton Cup, 12 months after finishing runner-up in the event with her prolific winning chaser.

And while that victory had pride of place with Leek, it was her win last year with Bubbles in the Judy Hayley Memorial at Sandown that carried special fondness.

Karen was a close friend of the late Judy Hayley, bringing so much meaning to the emotion fuelled victory.

And as fate would have it, Bubbles was the last greyhound she trained.

Leek's immense success as a breeder-rearer-owner and trainer will leave a lasting legacy on the industry.

Her desire to help and educate young aspiring participants another of her glowing attributes, always one to volunteer her time for the betterment of the sport.

Rest In Peace.