03/09/2004 | K3WQ I had no intention of entering this contest; I just stumbled into it while scanning the 40-meter band and decided to give it a try. As it happened, it was lots of fun and really helped me improve my ability to copy CW. And I found that you don't have to be a "big gun" to get in on the action. I was only running 20W--just as I always do--and had no problem working anyone. Of course, I'm sure it helped that most of the DX stations were using beam antennas. I even submitted a checklog. (I have absolutely no hope of ever doing well as a single operator; nevertheless, it's fun to submit a checklog just to help out the serious participants.)

I now look forward to the next CW contest. See you folks on the air.

73, Dave -- K3WQ