[VHFcontesting] What cost and expected benefit to compete?

[jon jones]

I agree with Tim and Ken that "entry fees" could be a disincentive. Tim 
notes a major Rover Expedition may incur significant "out of pocket 
expenses" especially with the recent run-up in gas prices. A VHF contest 
DXpedition to a foreign country can incur more. How much more?

My trip to Bermuda for the June 2003 VHF QSO Party cost over $2,500 USD 
after air fare, lodging, food, 6M5X yagi, IC-706 MII, coax and other 
incidental costs. I made 371 QSOs in the contest, so it cost me over $6.75 a 
piece for each contest contact!  Kevin, WB8XX operated as V25XX from Antigua 
in the same VHF contest, and likely had similar costs. I am not complaining 
about the expense - I went because I enjoy VHF Contesting and working DX on 
6M.

Would a contest entry fee discourage me from going again?  Possibly, but not 
as much as the lack of recognition for foreign entries in the ARRL VHF 
Contest write-ups and the contest rule "foreign stations work W/VE amateurs 
only."


- Jon N0JK

>We're entering the "what is the value added" arena with entry fees.  For
casual contesters, any fee would be a disincentive.  Many would protest 
loudly and
go away mad. Those who mount contest expeditions are already paying out of
pocket expenses.

>Regular gas was $2.64/gallon in my neighborhood today; and I know that it's
more than that elsewhere, but the 1000 miles we're going to drive during the
September contest (14 mpg in our rovermobile) plus the overnight stay...


73, Tim K0PG