[CQ-Contest] Thoughts on contesting.

[DXer]

Dear Contesters,

Don't be shy to use the delete key now. :^)

There are many different opinions on how to equalize, and regulate, 
contests. Most of the current difficulties have to do with advances in 
technology, and what they have enabled. The contesting world is still 
struggling with how to deal with skimmers, RBN, remotes, even the internet.

The logistics of contesting make it impossible for all competitors to 
have the same starting conditions, even within the same categories. We 
operate from different places. These places are disperse, not only in a 
city, but all over the world. We don't have referees in-loco, but rely 
on wideband recordings. The hardware available/used is different.

The only exception to almost all of the above is the WRTC, but in this 
case another can of worms opens, that being how the participants get 
selected. Past performance on a number of designated contests is one 
criteria, but also invites and sponsorship. Not totally fair, some would 
say.

The first thing we must accept is that it's never going to be a level 
playing field, even when all the rules are followed. If this is what 
we're seeking, while a noble goal, it's a waste of time and energy.

We must deal with what is possible and concrete. Taking 'intentions' 
into account is problematic. Intentions have cultural undertones. 
Hamradio has always avoided getting into these (cultural) discussions.

Hamradio is legislated by countries, and regulated by national 
administrations, as such, violations to any laws and regulations must be 
first and foremost in the minds of contest committees. Lest we be known 
as a bunch of 'outlaws', and the possible consequences derived from this 
'reputation'.

All said, I think the CC enforcement priority should focus on:

Legal/Regulatory

1) Good/clean TX signal;
2) Operation within the designated allocations;
3) Single TX signal per band at any one time;
4) Technology permitting, legal max power level verification.

Contesting

1) Declared assisted, or unassisted entry;
2) Unassisted have no self-spotting privileges;
3) Same declared TX/RX location, including remotes;
4) Technology permitting, category max power verification;
5) Log padding, and the other extreme, QSO discarding.

I'm sure there are many more, both legal/regulatory, and contesting 
items, that need verification/enforcement.

My point again: even when all the rules and regulations are followed, 
contesting will never be played on a level playing field. The dictionary 
definition of the adjective 'fair' may be met, but the adverb definition 
of 'fair' is a different story.

Apologies for the long winded message.

73 de Vince, VA3VF