[VHFcontesting] [Mw] ARRL Jan VHF W9SZ Single Op Port QRP

[Rick R]

You do need a consolation prize--especially since you invested so much time 
and effort, yet had so little "action"....and as far as operating under 
adverse conditions, just remember that's why the ARRL made the VHF contest 
in January--for us VHF ops to suffer--hihi--although mother nature was kind 
to us here on the East coast for the first time that I can ever remember for 
a January contest. All of us have had those frozen toes and fingers, red 
noses and numb extremities. Having roved for the past 15+ winters, and 
operated from portable locations in New England before that, we have had 
those iced masts that slipped and slid, and I agree that the worst problem 
is after the contest when you are tired and ready to collapse, then have to 
break down a station, the frosted antennas and coax connectors and cables 
and drag it all home, umpack and get ready for work the next AM---Luckily, 
we have managed to survive, and forget the problems of past years and go 
headlong into the next year's Jan contest trying to overcome all adversity. 
Luckily, we have hit some solutions in our rover set-up to overcome the 
frost, fatigue, cold and improve the scoring satisfaction. Be glad to review 
with you off line! Congrats on your grit and determination. Self appointed 
tasks accomplished are the most satisfying, and may that console you! Rick, 
K1DS/R