Welcome to ham radio and contesting, Steve!
You can participate in the VHF contests as a Tech. Depending on where you
are, they can be very slow-paced, but still a lot of fun. My favorite
entry category is "QRP-portable" (technically, now called "Single-Op
Portable"). A few times a year I manage to cram equipment for 9 or 10
bands into a Toyota Corolla and go to a hilltop to set it all up and
operate in these VHF/UHF contests. Being limited to 10 watts, I'm
definitely a "little pistol" but I have won my section a few times in that
category.
Note that you can use an FM radio for the VHF contests on simplex
frequencies but you'll get the most out them with an SSB/CW rig and a
horizontally-polarized beam. And I've worked no-code Techs who were
getting their feet wet on CW in these contests. Most people will slow
down to make a QSO.
Have fun and I hope to work you.
73, Zack W9SZ
On Tue, 18 Nov 2003, Hanlon, Steve wrote:
> As a new ham, contesting is an interesting side of the hobby/service. I am
> currently only a Technician, but am working on upgrading to General in the
> next few weeks. I worked the SS as a guest op at the local radio club and
> had a very good time. The Sunday doldrums hit us very hard here in 3 land.
> We could hear the sections on the west coast, but couldn't make contact.
>
> I have already informed the XYL of my future contesting plans. I have so
> much to learn... I should have jumped in this hobby/service 15 years ago when
> I was in my teens. Stupid me thought ham radio was for geeks. Guess I'm a
> geek now ;)
>
> Any must read material out there for the budding contester? I'm not looking
> to be a big gun, but rather be a big in the little gun world.
>
> -Steve Hanlon
> KB3KAQ
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