11/24/2004 | K0COM I actually took the trouble to plan ahead to work this contest. Actually, computer and rig troubles in the shack made me do it. You can put me in the casual contester category here in Colorado due to antenna limitations. So, I asked my wife if I could use her computer for the weekend. With that approved, I loaded Writelog and set it up. The rig problem to deal with - the rig control for the 775 quite working - I had to decide to use it or go to the back up 746. The 746, while a good little radio, had no filters or dsp, so I stuck with the 775. No point and shoot benefit, had to tune the stations manually. Now, if I can just remember to change bands in the logging software when I change on the radio!

I climbed up into the attic to check on the antenna farm. Nothing was growing up there in the dark and all checked out OK. (double bazooka's for 80 and 40, a Sigma 5 vertical for 20 - 10)

Results were good for 12 hours of contesting, 312 Q's and 80 sections running unlimited and doing 95% search and pounce. I want to thank all those stations that had to work with me due to my weak signals. I found everyone in this contest to be very accommodating. This is what makes sweepstakes so fun for me. 2004 marks the 10th year since I was licensed and operated my first contest, Sweepstakes, with the TCFMC back in Minneapolis.

Had a great time even with the antenna limitations. Perhaps being in the center of the country was beneficial? I will be back again next year for sure. -- K0COM