[UK-CONTEST] Operation prior to the contest

[Roger Cooke]

Hi Y'all.

  Yes, interesting comments. I agree with Dave, G3YYD, in that it does not make too much difference although it is nice to "snag" a run frequency first off. This is more prevalent in the SSB section. With so many stations in such a limited band, it is difficult to remain quiet until start if you want a run frequency. However, if you start at one end and work your way to the other in S&P, the Q rate is almost as fast if you can time it right. It is quite interesting to see others doing that either chasing you or vice versa!

  However, in SSB it is not quite so easy. What is more annoying is the obvious making of "lists" to start with. As an example, no calls no pack-drill, I was listening to a station sending the usual "TEST" for about five minutes. He then counted down the seconds to zero and with one CQ and one call he started with an immediate station. However, I called at the same time and I knew he could hear me. He totally ignored me and just worked a "list". I tried this five times and then gave up. This is not in the spirit of the contest.  Great to ask the other club members to give out some points, but listing is to be discouraged methinks.

  Back on the CW again, I wish those stations with an FT1000MP would PLEASE get the W8JI keying mod done!!!  The awful key clicks are so bad you can bet your life it will emanate from an unmodded FT1000MP.

Regards from Roger, G3LDI
Swardeston, Norfolk.