Random thoughts

I have read several blog entries and reflector postings recently about "Xtreme" contesting. You can read more about it here: http://cqww.com/CQ_WW_Xtreme_Rules.pdf. There's a lot of good discussion about this on the CQ Contesting reflector. Along with this are several ongoing discussions about modifying or adding categories to various contests to award or recognize operators who are unable to compete the entire contest. For instance, an op might take his best hour or his best 6 hours and enter his results in a special category. Also, many suggestions have been made to increase the awards for low power entries. Seems that there's a push to encourage semi-serious contestors, who, undeniably, play a large role in helping Big Gun stations achieve their totals.

Being more of a purist, I'm kind of wishy-washy on what I've read regarding Xtreme contesting. But I recognize that if we, collectively, are going to advance ham radio through available and new technology we're going to have to try new things. Doesn't mean all of them will work out, but why not try? As many have pointed out, things that seemed outlandish just a few years ago are perfectly acceptable and considered 'standard' nowadays. Plus, it's not going to change how I participate. At least not right now.

I have stronger feelings about increasing the number of awards and creating special categories for competitors who can't go the full distance in a contest.

When I participate in a contest, I know beforehand that I stand a snowball's chance in hell of winning or receiving an award. There's no way. I'm not good enough. But does that stop me? Heck no. I still have fun. Would I love to be recognized for some accomplishment? Sure, who doesn't enjoy some recognition? But I don't want to be recognized for something "less than" what the contest is supposed to be about. And I don't want a special category created so that I might stand a better chance. It's like not keeping score in a kid's soccer game. What's the first thing out of the kid's mouth? "Who won?" And tell me this, does the answer, "You're all winners", ever work? Not a chance. Tell that to a kid who tried their hardest. Even 5 year olds want to know, who won?

The other night I went to my daughter's band concert. Afterwards, every kid got an award. Every kid. I suppose that creates a 'feel-good' moment (and a photo op for the parents) but afterwards, while driving a van load of kids home all I heard was how unfair it was that EVERY kid got an award, especially those who didn't try hard or contribute. Perhaps there's a lesson to be learned?

Now, of course, no one is talking about everyone getting an award or a 'thanks for participating' plaque from ham radio contests. So I've taken this to an extreme. And I'm not saying that the present categories are perfect, but if something prevents you from operating the full time of the contest, then so be it. Better luck next time. If you go all out for an hour and rack up some incredible amount of contacts, is that worthy of an award if you shut it down after an hour while everyone else puts in 12 hours or the full amount? Now that may seem harsh and, yes, it means that us low power semi-contesters won't be getting any awards, but I'm ok with that. I know some may feel strongly the other way and I respect that.

Interesting stuff.