2003 ARRL November Sweepstakes (Phone)
11/20/2003 |
KB1IAR
Had a lot of fun this year with my IC-718 @ 100w thru my MFJ-949e to th G5RV Jr. about 40' up.
This is the 2nd time I tried the SS. Last year I was a new General and worked only 26 stations. This year I set a personal goal of 100 QSOs and made it exactly working 20 and 40. I wanted to work 10 but found the band dead whenever I tried it.
I was cursed with a wicked cold and sore throat that kept me from making too many contacts on Saturday. I thought for sure I wouldn't get there but was able to pick up steam Sunday afternoon when my throat was a little less sore and hit # 100 around 2330. I came back in the final hour to add a few "insurance" contacts but found the bands too noisy and little activity.
My thanks to everyone who was patient enough to listen to my hoarse voice and complete the exchange when conditions weren't ideal. I still get disappointed when some of the hardcore contest stations quickly dismiss my weak signal, but I do understand that they have a different goal than I as a strictly casual contester, do. Since I'm not looking to finish at the top in the standings, I have more satisfaction when I complete a difficult contact and I and the other operator thank each other for their patience. It's also a lot of fun working in one of the rarer sections (RI) and hearing the appreciation in the other operator's voice when he thanks you for giving him a needed multi.
Again, had a lot of fun and am looking forward to the next one.
73,
James in Manville RI -- KB1IAR
This is the 2nd time I tried the SS. Last year I was a new General and worked only 26 stations. This year I set a personal goal of 100 QSOs and made it exactly working 20 and 40. I wanted to work 10 but found the band dead whenever I tried it.
I was cursed with a wicked cold and sore throat that kept me from making too many contacts on Saturday. I thought for sure I wouldn't get there but was able to pick up steam Sunday afternoon when my throat was a little less sore and hit # 100 around 2330. I came back in the final hour to add a few "insurance" contacts but found the bands too noisy and little activity.
My thanks to everyone who was patient enough to listen to my hoarse voice and complete the exchange when conditions weren't ideal. I still get disappointed when some of the hardcore contest stations quickly dismiss my weak signal, but I do understand that they have a different goal than I as a strictly casual contester, do. Since I'm not looking to finish at the top in the standings, I have more satisfaction when I complete a difficult contact and I and the other operator thank each other for their patience. It's also a lot of fun working in one of the rarer sections (RI) and hearing the appreciation in the other operator's voice when he thanks you for giving him a needed multi.
Again, had a lot of fun and am looking forward to the next one.
73,
James in Manville RI -- KB1IAR
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