Ok so here we are post contest again and all the whining and complaining
about how as it was appropriately described on 144.205 this morning as the
"abuse" of FT8 in the VHF contests. There is all the typical complaining
and when you stand back and listen they are ALL valid points. Both pro and
con. But it seems there's (at least what I've heard) a larger number of
"old school" VHF contesters that don't like the "abuse" of this mode. They
mostly agree that this mode is useful for working DX, but the problem is
the abuse comes from allowing it to be used for "local" QSOs. But local or
DX definition is solely based upon a particular station's perspective /
location/ capabilities.
There are 2 real facts here.
1. These are contests we all like to operate in and to keep activity
levels up as our hobby's average age increases we need to make it enjoyable
and not just a numbers game for competition.
2. The sponsor of the events, the ARRL, ONLY looks at it numbers wise ...
Meaning, if it shows increased entries then the rules as they stand are
working.
These 2 facts along with no one or group or groups approaching the ARRL
with a CONCRETE proposal for change and why endorsed by large numbers of
VHFers results in NO CHANGE to the rules / situation.
In my eyes we either...
1. Need a concrete proposal we can live with.....whatever that is, or...
2. We need to leave it to the ARRL to do with it as they please and
continue the way it is as this is what the stats show, or....
3. We could "boycott" a few of the events to get the ARRL's attention
because the entry numbers have suddenly plummeted and therefore there must
be an issue that needs addressing and see what they do.
Anything other than this is just a bunch of old hams pissing and moaning
about the situation.
This is my opinion and it plus a couple bucks should get you your favorite
coffee!
73
Fred
K1FMS
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