[CQ-Contest] Check this

[Tree]

W5OV writes:

> Also, we do not need to go to a 4 year check - 3 digits will suffice for
> the next 999 years.

But that will make it so much harder in 1000 years for anyone to break the
existing records.  Having to send two extra numbers in each of the exchanges
sent (and received) will add up to a lot more time spent in the QSO, a 2X
probability of there being an error and a net decrease in the possible score.

This will give an unfair advantage to anyone who set their record when only
3 (or two!) numbers were required.  

We should clear the record books now of the two digits checks and just go to
four digit ones since they will be required someday.

Furthurmore - in order to make sure someone with a lousy check like 1967 
(which is mine as well as K5GO's check) doesn't "adopt" a better check
(like "5555" which can be abbreviated by a single "dit" if you are from 
Portugal) - we will now require PROOF that your first license was issued
in the year you say it was.  This must be provided at least 30 days before
the contest - so that we can update the prefill master database and 
distribute it to the ARRL affiliated clubs.  

73 Tree N6TR
tree at kkn.net