2003 ARRL November Sweepstakes (Phone)
11/17/2003 |
N4KIT
Well, where to start.
That seemed to be the question this year. 10 seemed to be all but dead, though some signals (strong ones too) were there, I think most assumed it would be closed and started at 15. I did too. After the first couple of hours, I gradually migrated, seemingly reaching each band a little behind the curve. Even when I could find a clear spot, my 100 w and Carolina Windom did'nt seem to be able to punch through the QRM from nearby stations well enough to be copied reliably. So I satisfied myself with a hunt and pounce approach.
Did I mention the bands were weird? A station there S10+ one minute was in the noise the next. I had no luck locating J. and his fellow VY1's at all. Heard Hawaii, but I was unable to punch through for a Q.
Missing from the log this year: NT, RI, SF, SB, PAC, AK, WY, ID
Of note this year were a few very high quality QRP stations. I did'nt make note of the calls, but the signals were first rate, attesting to much work to optimize antennas. FB guys, well done.
At least I did (with encouragement from the XYL and kids) manage to top my best score, even though Sun morning my heart really wasn't in it. Thanks to all the OMs and YLs who came back to my call. This is still my favorite operating event of the year.
73 de Chris 285 A N4KIT 96 VA, see ya'll next year! -- N4KIT
That seemed to be the question this year. 10 seemed to be all but dead, though some signals (strong ones too) were there, I think most assumed it would be closed and started at 15. I did too. After the first couple of hours, I gradually migrated, seemingly reaching each band a little behind the curve. Even when I could find a clear spot, my 100 w and Carolina Windom did'nt seem to be able to punch through the QRM from nearby stations well enough to be copied reliably. So I satisfied myself with a hunt and pounce approach.
Did I mention the bands were weird? A station there S10+ one minute was in the noise the next. I had no luck locating J. and his fellow VY1's at all. Heard Hawaii, but I was unable to punch through for a Q.
Missing from the log this year: NT, RI, SF, SB, PAC, AK, WY, ID
Of note this year were a few very high quality QRP stations. I did'nt make note of the calls, but the signals were first rate, attesting to much work to optimize antennas. FB guys, well done.
At least I did (with encouragement from the XYL and kids) manage to top my best score, even though Sun morning my heart really wasn't in it. Thanks to all the OMs and YLs who came back to my call. This is still my favorite operating event of the year.
73 de Chris 285 A N4KIT 96 VA, see ya'll next year! -- N4KIT
Back
