What an incredibly cold and windy weekend, though no better time to get out and operate as Rover in the January 2019 VHF Contest. Though work and other commitments limited my time in the field, I totally enjoyed every contact I shivered through.

I tried to implement everything I learned from Andrea Slack, K2EZ, the Queen of Rovers, at her recent presentation at FLARC (Fair Lawn Amateur Radio Club) though did not have the pleasure of working her this contest.

Eyeball QSO's with Bob, KD2BKD/R, and Tom, N2YTF/R, were among the highlights.

Bob had recently upgraded his mobile antenna and rig for multi-band and multi-mode operation. His planning and preparation were great examples.

We ran into Tom at Stateline Lookout, totally by coincidence after meeting him there during the September 2018 VHF Contest. Tom is an avid SOTA op, and was well equipped for all the bands approaching daylight. We hung out even after the park was officially closed, when our only concern was getting locked in. That would not have been so bad as long as we didn't freeze or fall off the steep cliffs.

Tom was proud to have been invited as a guest presenter at an upcoming FLARC meeting. Really looking forward to that.

My big takeways were about the value of planning and preparation, long before the actual event, to maximize on-air time and efficiency.

These include:

• Minimize in-field setup
• Pre-program frequencies and modes into radio(s)
• Mobile mount antenna for rapid deployment and easy aiming
• Operate as many bands from as many grids as possible
• Consider QRO (though my heart belongs to QRP)
• Constantly upgrade and improve antennas (this should be listed first!)
• Bring snacks and beverages though keep sanitary facilities nearby
• Plan the route for most efficient travel to multiple grids
• Dress for the weather and rapid changes during day and night
• Use spotting and other resources if allowed in rules
• Have all logging and other software loaded and tested including backup devices
• Use a checklist/inventory of parts and always have backups
• Enhance power sources
• Practice practice practice
• Location location location
• Elevation elevation elevation
• Antenna antennas antennas
• Have fun fun fun with good friends

This was a truly fun experience, and a great learning experience.

See you on the bands again soon.

Thanks to all and 73.

:Steve Rosman KA2YRA/R