Jumpstarting the New Year
The big contests of the Fall are now behind us and the more sedate contests like QSO parties and youth-oriented on-air events begin. This month has five contests worth noting. (For a complete list of contests please see the contest calendar here.)
ARRL RTTY Roundup ~ 1800Z, Jan 5 to 2400Z, Jan 6
If you’re new to digital contesting this is a good place to begin. There are a number of members in the club that could serve as mentors to help you get going. And, Fred AB1OC and Anita AB1QB often host an effort from their station. See also the ARRL Kids Day event below.
Exchange: RST + State/Province
Contest information: http://www.arrl.org/rtty-roundup
ARRL Kids Day ~ 1800Z-2359Z, Jan 5
Here’s your chance to work a lot of young people on the air. And, if you are a young person just getting started, this is a great event to gain confidence.
Exchange: name + age + QTH + favorite color
Contest information: http://www.arrl.org/kids-day
North American QSO Party
CW ~ 1800Z, Jan 12 to 0559Z, Jan 13,
SSB ~ 1800Z, Jan 19 to 0559Z, Jan 20
This is one of my favorite contests. The pace is relaxed, people are friendly, and it is a great way to fill in the blanks on your Worked All States award.
Exchange: NA: Name + (state/DC/province/country)
Contest information: http://www.ncjweb.com/NAQP-Rules.pdf
Winter Field Day ~ 1900Z, Jan 26 to 1900Z, Jan 27
See the N1FD article here. The NARS club has a big effort planned for this event including multiple transmitters and a collection of antennas for everything from 160m to 10m. Operating will be done from a heated shelter so you can rack up points in comfort! Contact the team leaders for more information.
Exchange: Category (indoor/outdoor/home) and ARRL section.
Contest information: https://www.winterfieldday.com
Bottom of the solar cycle
Even though we are in the solar doldrums don’t get discouraged. The bands are surprisingly good when everybody gets on and enough call CQ. In fact, with the bands a little weak this is a great time to learn how to call CQ and handle callers. You won’t get a big pile-up (because conditions are not great), but you will get people coming back to your call. Be patient and hone your skills during this down part of the cycle. Then you’ll be ready when conditions improve!