Jane Clark named WCRL Pioneer of Rally
Jane Clark of Peoria, Ill., was one of the leaders behind the new Rally Flash program. After a competitor suggested “a course that includes only moving exercises” in a Facebook post, several judges, including Jane, started a virtual discussion about how that class might work and what exercises to include. The innovative Flash program launched on the USDAA@Home!℠ rally platform in January 2022.
“I am honored to be nominated and for the Selection Committee’s vote,” Jane said of her induction into the WCRL Hall of Fame as a Pioneer of Rally. “The recognition means a great deal to me. WCRL Rally holds a special place in my heart, and I’m appreciative of all the support that I’ve received over the years.”
A retired special education teacher and school administrator, Jane has been involved in dog sports for more than 30 years. She began teaching rally in 2001 and became a judge in 2011. As a rally judge, she loves seeing a team complete courses with enthusiasm and good communication. “There is an amazing relationship between human and canine that shines throughout the competition. When the teams are having fun, it adds to the positive atmosphere that is a large part of WCRL inside the ring and among the teams outside of ring,” Jane said.
Meet Jane’s Nominator
“I think the invention of the Flash program is just brilliant!” said Jerri-Lynn Morrison, who competes with her poodle. “It’s so nice there are no ‘sits’ or ‘downs,’ which can be harder for older dogs as they get arthritic. The explanations for the Flash signs are so well written and the signs so clearly laid out that we were able to learn how to successfully achieve our Flash titles just using those!”
Jerri-Lynn nominated Jane for the Hall of Fame Pioneer award. "Jane has also been such a great judge to trial under through the virtual program, kindly explaining things I didn’t understand so my dog and I could keep growing as a team,” Jerri-Lynn added. “Her love of the sport is just wonderful.”
To nominate someone to the WCRL Hall of Fame, complete and submit the form that is available in the rallydogs.com Library.