[CQ-Contest] WRTC report

[Randy Thompson]

A total of 58 teams have made their way to Bologna, Italy for the delayed WRTC2022 competition that will run concurrently with the IARU Contest this weekend.  Lots of handshakes and hugs as contesters from around the world renew friendships or meet for the first time. The opening ceremony last night brought everyone together for this first time.  It began with an opening by S50A, speeches by the leaders of the Organizing Committee, the president of the Marconi museum, and the president of the ARI national society.  A great kickoff!

The weather has been fantastic.  Well, except for a line of Thunderstorms on Monday evening that caused one site antenna to blow down.  It must have been a strong storm as it also broke trees and powerlines in the area.  The WRTC committee accepted this as one more challenge and have already made necessary repairs.

Lots of chatter among the teams and referees.  You can feel the tension as some teams are happy to enjoy the experience and others are focused on getting to the starting line with the hope of a podium finish.

The teams received their referee assignments this morning.  There is the usual referee + competitor meeting this afternoon to review any questions about the rules.  Teams will be notified of their site assignments tomorrow morning and the adventure will really begin.  It is only when you arrive at your site that you know the site terrain, accommodations, food situation, and noise levels.  This uncertainty has always been part of the WRTC competitor experience.

I am writing this from the lobby of the WRTC hotel as I wait for my turn to test the online logging connection that will be used for live score reporting and QSO tracking for producing live stations worked info for all "hunters".

Rumors are swirling that some exciting and never before seen callsigns may be in use for the contest.  Look for the list to be published on Friday at wrtc2022.it.

The race begins at 1200z on Saturday July 8.  Be there!

73

Randy K5ZD