[CQ-Contest] Spotting AD Nauseum

[Paul J. Piercey]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: cq-contest-bounces at contesting.com 
> [mailto:cq-contest-bounces at contesting.com] On Behalf Of Dave Lawley
> Sent: March 11, 2007 01:52
> To: CQ Contest Reflector
> Subject: Re: [CQ-Contest] Spotting AD Nauseum
> 
> > On the other hand after watching N5TJ operate from home and win the 
> > world from NA, Im more certain than even than none of the top 
> > operators would do better with packet, since running real 
> SO2R is all 
> > about rithym, 2nd radio qso points and a complete sync between 
> > rate/mults and strategy.  Packet definitively breaks that balance.
> > 
> > Felipe
> > NP4Z
> 
> I, too, have watched N5TJ operate together with K1TO and it 
> was a highlight of my contesting career to be the on-site 
> referee when those two won WRTC in 2002.
> 
> Take any top-notch SO2R contester. Yes, rate and rhythm are 
> vital. But consider this. On the second radio, in your normal 
> rhythm, you come across someone running a pileup but not 
> signing his call. Packet assistance would allow you straight 
> away to determine whether you needed the guy or had already worked.
> 


Maybe. The spot would have to be correct though. Part and parcel of the
cluster mentality is that you, seemingly, don't have to ID as often because
everyone should know who you are. If everyone used the cluster, thereby
eliminating the assisted/non-assisted division, then it wouldn't be as much
of a problem. Conversely, if these stations that garner such pileups would
ID more often, the need for the cluster would diminish measurably.


> That's just one example but I think there are lots of ways in 
> which packet could enhance the score of even a top contester. 
> By merging assisted an unassisted categories you would take 
> away choice and force everyone who wanted to compete, to use packet.
> 
> Dave G4BUO


I've found it useful when looking for something specific but totally useless
when trying to get a decent score. Maybe I am not skilled enough.

I am not so much in favour of keeping the two categories as I am in
eliminating the cluster altogether. Not really sure exactly how I would vote
on it though if given the chance. I have pretty well decided that I will not
be using it in a contest situation anymore unless I don't plan on getting a
score as much as getting new counters for awards and such.

73 -- Paul VO1HE