Skip to content
NWTF Success Stories

Robin Clark Receives National Recognition from the NWTF

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The National Wild Turkey Federation honored Robin Clark, Wheelin’ Sportsmen state coordinator of Virginia, with the C.B. McLeod Award for his dedication to creating spaces for hunters with disabilities.

February 15, 20252 min read

“I was surprised, honored and humbled to be the recipient of the esteemed C.B. McLeod Conservation Award,” Clark said. “In my 23 years of service to the NWTF mission, I have served in every state leadership role, but my focus has predominately been on our Wheelin’ Sportsmen program. I am also proud of my 18 years of involvement with Virginia’s Super Fund Committee and our efforts to support conservation. When I look back at the past recipients, I am honored to even be mentioned in the same breath. Receiving this award would not have been possible without the support of our state board, local chapters and a team of dedicated volunteers.”

Clark received the C.B. McLeod Award during the NWTF’s 49th annual NWTF Convention and Sport Show, sponsored by Mossy Oak.

Clark joined the NWTF in 2002 shortly after learning of the newly formed Wheelin’ Sportsmen program. As a wheelchair user and avid hunter, he was always looking for opportunities to share his knowledge and create a space that welcomes hunters with disabilities. By 2003, he served as his chapter’s president and was asked to direct the Virginia Wheelin’ Sportsmen (VAWS) program, serving as state coordinator. In 2004, Clark hosted the first disabled turkey hunt in the state.

Clark worked with a machinist to develop a lightweight, affordable gun rest, which the Virginia Wheelin’ Sportsmen Chapter gave to disabled hunters who were in need of a steady shooting device. 

Clark still serves on the Virginia NWTF State Board of Directors, and this past year, Virginia hosted over 45 events for hunters with disabilities, a testament to Clark’s cultivation of the Wheelin’ Sportsmen program.

Over the years, he has continued to inspire new members. He has served on the State Super Fund Committee since 2007 and actively seeks out new public partnerships that will improve habitat and hunter access. He works with other conservation organizations — such as Ducks Unlimited, Virginia Waterfowlers Association, National Deer Association, Sportsmen of Virginia, Virginia Wildlife Foundation and more — to create new opportunities for disabled sportsmen and women. He recruits up to 400 Wheelin’ Sportsmen members in Virginia annually.

In 2005, he was awarded as the Virginia NWTF State Chapter Volunteer of the Year, and he was inducted into the Virginia Conservation Hall of Fame in 2007. In February of 2008, Clark was recognized with the national Wheelin’ Sportsmen Volunteer of the Year Award. In 2022, he was awarded with a Roger M. Latham Service Award.  

In the summer of 2017, Clark drafted legislation that would exclude disabled hunters from new hunting restrictions that required hunters to hunt from elevated positions 10 feet above the ground. He contacted his local House of Delegates representative who agreed to carry the bill forward. HB 1328 unanimously passed the House and Senate, and § 29.1-528.2 was signed into law July 1, 2018. 

“Robin’s passion for helping others and breaking down barriers is inspirational,” NWTF co-CEO Kurt Dyroff said. “Robin has a storied history with the NWTF; his efforts are undoubtedly why our Wheelin’ program is so successful in Virginia and across the nation. We are proud to recognize Robin this year with the C.B. McLeod Award.”