[SCCC] N6IMP CQP

[Randy Johnson]

California QSO Party

Call: N6IMP
Operator(s): W6SJ
Station: N6IMP    

Class: Single Op LP
QTH: IMP    
Operating Time (hrs): 20    

Summary:
Band CW Qs Ph Qs
--------------------
160: 
80: 113        32 
40: 255        4 
20: 133        46 
15: 83          24 
10: 64          10

Tot 648        119
--------------------
Total: 767  Mults = 53 Total Score = 115,646

Club: Salton Sea ARC 

Last year I operated CQP from the US VI as part of the NP3SH crew.  This was my first CQP as a CA station. Because of severe antenna restrictions at home QTH in Orange County, I thought it would be more fun to operate from a place where I might get up some good antennas. I went down to Niland at the SE corner of the Salton Sea and operated from my old duck club at 220' below sea level. 

Built a Moxon for 20 m and had a wire "beam" for 40.  All for naught.  Broke both mast attempting a solo erect. Bad choice!  So I jury rigged antennas, Moxon ended up at 12 feet.  Still had a great time and feel I had more fun than had I stayed home. Was able to get a good run going when I got to 40 m, made 100 Q's in the first hour, something I NEVER could have done from home.  This was the first phone contest I've worked and my phone skills are sure under-developed!

Temp was 100 degrees but both A/C at club worked so it was OK.  Would I do it again?  You bet, but not solo.  Too much work and you just plain need some help setting everything up. Better antennas sure would have improved results.