[CQ-Contest] A Bold Move

[Eric Hilding]

Hans, K0HB, wrote:

> SS is just fine, thank you.

What I propose can actually make SS a more "fun" experience during what many have professed to be the "Sunday afternoon dolrums".  There have been previous posts to this Reflector from some of the Contest operators who stated that they would "stay in the chair" longer if they had more of an incentive.  Nothing else changes for operators who do not want to enter the "Techno" category which is strictly Voluntary.

> You're not proposing a solution to a problem.....  you're proposing to
> remove an attraction of radiosport, mainly that every good contester
> maximizes his advantages and does whatever it takes to tilt the playing
> field in their favor.  "Level playing fields" are for those too lazy to
> gain and exploit advantages.

There have been previous posts to this Reflector from those who are stuck in CC&R challenged QTH's, that do not have the financial abilities to QSY to a more Contest-Friendly QTH, but for the reasons stated above, would "stay in the chair" longer...which means more potential QSOs for everyone.

There have been previous posts to this Reflector from Contesters complaining about ERP category related "Cheating" and Packet "Cheating".  My proposed "Experimental Category" is somewhat analogous to "drug testing" in the field of regular sports.  One would think that the such sporting venues that produce so many (alleged) "Heros" for young people would not require such drastic measures.  My proposal would not affect those who chose NOT to enter the "Experimental Category".  The Techno category would be strictly Voluntary for those who have already expressed the desire for a "more levelized playing field".

As much as I'd like to believe that all Contesters are "straight up" players, reality has proven otherwise.  The failure to acknowledge that serious problems do exist is exactly why they haven't been solved, and it's apparently more "convenient" to just keep sweeping the dirt under the carpet and do nothing.  No Leadership.  Contrary to the allegation that an attraction to radiosport would be removed, it will be just the opposite for the above stated reasons (more currently disgruntled Contesters staying in the chair longer).

The Contesting Community has an opportunity to regain some lost Integrity, unless too many remain in a state of Denial and Rationalization.

73...

Rick, K6VVA