[UK-CONTEST] HF CW Field Day

[plr at cathyandpeter.com]

I just wanted to add my comments re the very late change in rules. Up until 
yesterday, our small group was extremely keen and enthusiastic making 
preparations for this year's NFD with the challenges that the 19th March 
rules had introduced. All three of us were working on various aspects; 
designing, building and buying equipment in preparation for June. Emails 
were constantly flying between us and progress was rapid. The new rules 
opened up a different and exciting way of operating NFD and we were very 
keen to see how it would pan out during the contest weekend.



However, since yesterday's announcement of the changes, all of us have 
stopped the work we were doing (in my case, almost subconsciously) and that 
enthusiasm has taken a huge dive. I'm not sure what our plans will be - we 
need to discuss this but it is infuriating that it was allowed to happen. I 
find it hard to see how the Contest Committee members could not have 
foreseen the furore that these late changes would make. I am not sure who 
comprises the committee but not doubt they are all contesters and some, no 
doubt, take part in NFD. Could they not have put themselves in the position 
of other participants and have imagined what the reaction would be?



I appreciate the CC members are all volunteers and must get frustrated when 
"we" start complaining while they are doing an often thankless task. I am a 
volunteer in another organisation entirely but need to act in a professional 
manner and think through the consequences of any actions. Unfortunately, the 
CC does not seem to have done so on this occasion.



A great tragedy that will, as a result, almost certainly reduce the 
participant numbers this year and will spoil what has become an extremely 
enjoyably, annual weekend for many people.



Let's hope that the rules for next year, whatever they are, will be in place 
much earlier than they were this year and, once announced, will not be 
subject to change.



Peter, G4BVH  (@G4FNL/P)