I really enjoyed the opportunity to give some rookies a contact.  I ran QRP (as always), but brought the Argonaut out of mothballs for this one to run 3 watts out.  The rookies are at various points on the learning curve and some are already doing a great job.  It was especially cool to hear the really young operators getting the hang of things - and having fun! 

This operating activity is a great concept, but the whole spotting issue policy needs further emphasis (although it appeared to be very clear in the rules).  There were some obvious self-spots, undoubtedly due to the operators not reading the rules closely enough.  There was also some apparent spotting by family members.  I think it really reinforces the need for some heavy emphasis on what is proper (and legal) in any contest. 

My first contest was the Novice Round-Up in 1969.  Wow - so many things have changed since then, equipment, logging, spotting, skimmer, and hopefully my skills!  I may still not be a top contester, even within the QRP ranks, but I'd like to think that after 40 years I've learned a few things.  The point is we all have to start somewhere and learn from there - nobody was born knowing these things.  The fortunate rookies are those that are being actively mentored by an "ol' hand".  Thanks to all those that hosted rookies!  The others (like I did) are kind of learning by trial and error, and mimicking what they hear others do.  So in that respect we are all mentors at a distance.  - Another sobering reminder to be on our best behavior as we contest!

Pop-gun station: Ten Tec Argonaut 509 (3w output), 3 el. tribander Yagi at 48'
and dipole at 40'

73,
Randy, ND0C

You don't have to be crazy to contest using QRP ... but it helps.