[UK-CONTEST] Newbie Contesters

[Martin Snow]

Dear OM Chris G3SJJ,

Nothing in my offering to UK Contesting - “Newbie Contesters”
could reasonably be misconstrued that there is a “requirement” to use computer
logging. “Requirement” is your word OM.

Having been co-ordinator for the local club entry to AFS for
many years, I am very well aware of the forms required for correct entry of
contests. 

I also know very well, just how much time & work is needed to type up
someone else’s paper log either onto the correct form, or post contest, into a
computer logging program, in order to present their log in a tidy and legible form
and not present the hardworking adjudicators with  unnecessary work. Did you miss my point? Or
deliberately choose to address me publicly in a condescending and patronising
manner – perhaps, to belittle me?

The type of person we seek to join in our contests is an
intelligent and sensitive person, albeit without knowledge or experience of
contesting.  

We have a need, not to put them off contesting, or indeed
amateur radio, by the use of ill chosen words.

Amongst those in the higher echelons of amateur radio in UK,
there are some who give even longstanding amateurs, never mind newbies, the
impression they are taking up space in the hobby, which is allocated to those ‘who
know’. The present high numbers may well turn out to be illusory, I do hope
not. However, we are not so over endowed with new members to the hobby that we
can treat them with contempt just because they have little knowledge and
experience. They need to be valued,
treated with respect and nurtured, particularly by those in the hobby who do know.

Thank you for allowing me the opportunity of putting my
point of view.

73 de Martin, gw3prl, Isle of Anglesey.     (EU124 
ex!)

(First licensed 1961 as gw3prl/t pse see QRZ.com.)


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