End of the Year Contests

The big contests of the season: CQ WW and ARRL Sweepstakes are now behind us and we’re left with a set of smaller affairs that are still fun to do. The first to mention is the ARRL 10-Meter Contest to be held December 8 and 9 (UTC). At this point in the cycle 10 meters can be a tough band to work. But, openings happen and if you’re listening it can be an exciting time to work as many as you can before the band returns to its slumber.

The ARRL Rookie Roundup CW is held for a six hour stint on December 16th (1800Z – 2359Z). Check with Fred (AB1OC) and Anita (AB1QB) for opportunities to work that contest from their superstation. Don’t worry if you’re not that good at CW. You’ll have lots of help from others around you to copy. It’s a great way to learn.

As always, please check the www.contesting.com calendar for information on lots of smaller contests such as SKCC Weekend Sprintathon (December 8 and 9), or the QRP ARCI Holiday Spirits Homebrew Sprint (December 9 2000Z-2300Z).

Contester of the Month (October & November)

Without a doubt Layne (AE1N) gets the crown for last month. He put in good scores for CQ WW CW and phone, and ARRL Sweepstakes CW. From the looks of things it seems Layne might have also won the award for “had most fun on the air!”

If you participate in a contest and want to vie for a few club accolades then drop a note to [email protected] with your 3830 submission information and what category you competed in. I’ll highlight some of the best efforts each month in this column.

Good luck and CU on the air!