[CQ-Contest] CQ WW Scoring System needs revision?

[John Boudreau]

I've been following this thread with interest but I strongly feel there seems to be a basic misconception about amateur radio contesting in general and that has to do with the issue of "fairness".  There should never be ANY expectation of fairness in this game because it just isn't possible.  The overriding factors of location, location, and location preclude any attempts to make a "level playing field".  Even reasonable sounding ideas like distance based scoring still cannot erase the overwhelming advantage of being in the "right" place, depending on which contest we're talking about.  "Fairness" is not a part of radio contesting (or DXing for that matter).  Once people can get past that they'll have a lot more fun.  It's not that its un-fair to anyone, it's just that fairness isn't part of the equation.

For CQWW, the current timing, rules, and scoring has resulted in the most popular radiosport event in the world.  Why would anyone want to change anything?  The implementation of the overlay categories is a stroke of genius that allows for unlimited possibilities for a "contests within a contest" so why not make full use of this excellent feature.  Distance scoring overlays, limited time categories, QRP-only, easter eggs, whatever.  It is perfect for satisfying whatever perceived needs there are for modifications to the basic contest rules.

If you want to "win" CQWW it is not a secret how it is done.  Learn how to be a first-rate contest operator, buy property in the right place, and spend $100,000 on equipment and antennas.  Make this investment and you -might- just have a shot at winning...a $50 plaque and the fleeting admiration of your peers.  The good news is that anyone and everyone can just jump in and have fun regardless of their skill level, location, or setup, and have a blast.  And they do, in absolutely astounding numbers.  Did I mention that it is the most popular contest in the world?  Why change a thing?

73
John VE8EV