The 'C' Word

Can I mention the 'C' word?

I mean contests. I refuse to call it sport radio as to me a sport involves sweating and physical discomfort. Sitting in front of a radio shouldn't be uncomfortable. If it is you may need a new chair.Yes, there's an element of competition, but that's also true for growing the largest marrow. Anyway on to the point of this post.

Today was a first for me, the RSGB 144Mhz AFS contest was on and I thought I'd give away a few points, so instead of plonking the 5 ele yagi in the loft and leaving it in one place I put in on the end of my aluminium telescopic (wobble-o-matic) mast. The results were never going to be exceptional given I seem to live underground as far as rf is concerned but it was nice to give away a few points to those with higher real estate.

I've decided to give the UKAC contest a go as a 'proper' operator from a nearby hill and will use that kit with the FT-817 because I don't have batteries for the IC-7000. If anyone is concerned if I've caught the contesting bug, I don't think so, as today had most of the daylight spent at a local theatre and 'A Muppet Christmas carol'. 200 kids, mince pies, snot and Marmite and someone dressed up as what looked like the Easter bunny with stick on horns. Both our kids were fairly sure it was Rudolph so that's good.

QRB was Devon for me today, which was pleasing. All with 50w and a small yagi on the end of a pole. Lets see if I can improve on Tuesday night. Glad to see I'm firmly rooted to the bottom of the table though.