[UK-CONTEST] Commonwealth 2004

[Dave Sergeant]

On 17 Mar 2004 at 7:40, G3WPH wrote:

> I have already seen one comment on the reflector that with a modest
> station like mine you are only competing against yourself - a
> sentiment I share. This does not have to be the case and consequently
> this year I will be suggesting the inclusion of an additional
> restricted section for modest stations - something like 100 watts and
> single element antennas restricted in height to 15 metres.  I seem to
> remember that the old RSGB 7MHz contest had such a section and the
> RSGB 21/28 MHz contests still do.  I'm interested in the thoughts of
> others on this reflector -a good idea or not?

I was not going to bore you all with my entry of 40 QSOs and not a 
single VK/ZL in sight..... QRP entry, K2 at 5W into my 60ft long 
wire.

I repeat however the comment I put on my enty both last year and 
this, that there should be something more than just a difference 
between 12 and 24 hours operating between the open and restricted 
sections. Last year I did not keep tabs on the time and ended up in 
the open section, this year I made sure I kept as restricted. 
Operating QRP meant I spent more time trying to work people and I 
needed all the time I could get and yet I was competing with the 
400W/beam stations, something not quite fair!

I would suggest the restricted section is indeed low power/restricted 
antennas similar to the NFD rules. Whether that is 10W or 100W or 
maybe a new Low Power section is for the committee to decide, but it 
may encourage more participation from the less well equipped stations 
(some of whom see this contest as 'boring').

For what I did manage to work (including 5Z4DZ on 20m and very nearly 
also on 40m) I certainly enjoyed the weekend - but more as an 
opportunity to grab some new 2004 slots than a serious hope of 
winning...

73 Dave G3YMC

dave at davesergeant.com
http://www.davesergeant.com