[WWYC] Friedrichshafen 2012

[Paul MJ0PMA]

Hi Guys,

First timer so probably a different perspective.   I don't believe that new younger hams are distracted from contesting by D-Star etc. I think its actually the opposite as Contesting is probably the most exciting thing about radio to younger people.  UK figures at least suggest that within AR contesting is on the increase at quite a rapid rate mostly because the competitive aspect is appealing to younger people.   When I started out it was really only the building/homebrew aspect that appealed because i'm not one for 'small talk' and ragchewing but i was invited to have a go in a contest by my elmer as they were doing a half hearted fun entry and i sat for the day doing search and pounce.  My first ever ham radio contact was in CQWW SSB and i've been hooked ever since!   I started up the Jersey Contest Group to get GJ2A back on the air in local hands and always try to leave a couple of hours spare in the schedule for newly licensed hams to have a go with the big antennas and linear in a proper contest which i think is quite rare at least with the big gun stations.  Perhaps some of the guys here could find a way to get some newbies on the team for some of the less important contests?

On the subject of WWYC, it certainly needs advertising as i would never have known about it if it wasn't for a friend mentioning it to me.  Also the website could do with a bit of a 'blurb' on the front page explaining what its all about.  Users decide whether they like a site within a few seconds so it is important to grab attention right away.    I didn't even know WWYC was on Facebook, will join now.

I won't be at Friedrichshafen but I will be at the RSGB HFC in October.

73,
- Paul Ahier, MJ0PMA (GJ2A)