[CQ-Contest] The "high and mighty" syndrome on display

Hank Greeb n8xx at arrl.org
Fri Dec 19 15:57:57 EST 2014


I've recently viewed a super display here in the forum of the "high and 
mighty syndrome" of a "self professed 'elite' contest operator" who 
showed, without a doubt, disdain for a "lower class, worthless QRP bum" 
who is trying to learn how to work in a contest.

Note:  I've been doing "CQ CENT" or CQ ARRL Centennial (on voice). 
Yesterday I ran across a fellow who called me three times "N8XX N8XX 
N8XX de WB5zzz WB5zzz WB5zzz" at about 14 WPM.  I slowed down to 14 WPM, 
gave him my "5NN PSM" to which he replied with his QTH, (Send in 
duplicate) his name (sent in duplicate) and then "N8XX de WB5zzz KN"  I 
replied with WB5zzz N8XX TU NAME 73.  He came back, asked for my name 
and QTH, and I gave these to him and closed with 73 de n8xx CENT" All at 
14 WPM.   I did speed up the "N8XX CENT" and he came back with "TU 73"   
This took perhaps 3 to 4 minutes.  No, it wasn't a blood and guts 
contest, but I figure he probably went away with a good feeling.  I've 
been asked in a contest for Name and QTH, and I always responds with 
name and QTH.   I figure that missing one, two, three, or more contacts 
is worth encouraging the newbie to keep trying.

Why so many "self profession elitists" in the contest community?  I 
certainly don't understand it.   I had to learn how to operate in a 
contest, and I assume that anyone who dips his/her toes into a contest 
deserves respect and encouragement.

And, if I choose to run 0.1 watt or 1.5 KW, it's my choice.

72/73 de n8xx Hg
QRP >99.44% of the time


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