I‘ve always maintained that the most important club office is that of Contest Manager; Kudos to James, K1SD, who has effectively prodded CTRI participation in the recent past. Since no one was elected CM at the most recent meeting, I suggest that we all become club “contest managers” and encourage contest participation with web postings of your favorite activities. Here’s my take on that.
Our next immediate contest coming up is the CQ World-Wide SSB DX Contest the last weekend of the month. This is a biggee. Lots of options: all band, single band, high low or QRP power, assisted or not, classic, rookie, etc. Pick a category and go to it for as many hours as you wish. Exchange is “59 5” (we are in zone 5).
Looking ahead to November, here’s another idea. Historically, the club has from time to time made a special concerted effort to maximize our club aggregate score. Remember “one million or bust” in the New England QSO Party? Special 1 X 1 call-signs in the NEQP? A mighty 10 meter contest effort? All highly successful club ventures.
Our club membership has increased in recent months. Some are newcomers to radio contesting. What upcoming contest could we consider for a concerted effort by all? I suggest the ARRL November Sweepstakes: CW Nov. 4 – 5 and SSB Nov. 18 -19. Why? It’s a domestic contest, USA and Canada, so a big station is not required. A dipole at 40 feet is just what the doctor ordered.
Commencing in 1930, SS is the grand-daddy of all contests with an exchange patterned after the preamble of message traffic….the basis upon which the ARRL was founded! True, everyone is not conversant in “the code.” That’s OK. There is an SSB weekend. This has been my favorite contest for some 50+ years. It is ideal for newcomers with modest stations.
Here’s how CTRI has done in recent Sweepstakes contests.
2016: 8 entries for 597,756 points
2015: 10 entries for 603,022 points
2014: 10 entries for 755,662 points
2013: 10 entries for 1,060,126 points
Clearly, we have been going down-hill. With increased emphasis on a greater number of participants and perseverance, we could do much better. How about “2 million points or bust” as a battle cry? What a great way to get our newer members — along with our stalwarts — to contribute to our club’s overall success. Apathy is not an option. See page 96 October QST for details.
I invite comment here with discussion at the October 14 meeting.
