The Australian Bridge Federation was pleased to announce in January 2000 the inaugural Helman- Klinger Awards.
Rabbi Leonard Helman, an American lawyer , prominent bridge enthusiast and philanthropist donated $6,000 to establish the prize to honour Ron and Suzie Klinger’s outstanding contribution to bridge.
The first award was won by Mark Abraham. The guidelines as set by Rabbi Helman were ability, achievement, sportsmanship, attitude, contribution and commitment to bridge. Leonard could have won the award himself because he had all the attributes. The donation was augmented by the ABF to create two awards, The second for the youth player who had earned the most masterpoints in the previous year.
Rabbi Helman died early Thursday 6 June at the age of 86. Helman set an example in how he lived his life- showing, rather than telling that kindness and compassion matter both to man and God.
He will be greatly missed.
Keith Mc Donald.
President ( ABF ).

An obituary, provided by Ron Klinger can be found at www.abf.com.au/member-services/obituaries/rabbi-leonard-helman/