[RACES-Membership] 2009 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo

[AK7AR]

Hello Everyone,

This is a call to Amateur Radio Operators that would like to play radio 
in the desert!

If you or a fellow amateur radio operator enjoys supporting a public 
service event out in the desert for a weekend, this event is for you.

The 2009 "24 Hours in the Old Pueblo" is a charitable mountain bike 
event that is held near Willow Springs Ranch (northwest of Oracle). This 
is a 24 hour endurance mountain bike event that raises money for area 
charities. Over the last 5 or 6 years, amateur radio operators have 
provided communications support for this effort. This is one of the 
largest public service events for amateurs in the area and so we need as 
much help as possible.

We will be running typical phone ops with APRS and this year we are 
starting the implementation of D-STAR into the mix.

We will need operators that can do the traditional "passive" support 
with their vehicle and stationed at various places on the course but we 
are also looking for operators that are interested in "active" patrol 
support. So if you are willing and able to hike, bike, ride your 
quad/dirtbike... we have a special need for you in this event.


If you think you are interested, please contact me and I will fill in 
the details. The minimum commitment to the event is 4 hours of your time 
with a maximum commitment of upto 30 hours of your time and spending the 
weekend in the desert. You also need a minimum of a dual band full sized 
radio (2m/70cm) with a full sized mobile antenna. If you want to 
actively patrol, you will need a minimum of a dual band handie-talkie 
with plenty of batteries. APRS for the patroller is welcomed and highly 
enouraged.

The event is being held over valentines day weekend this year. So plan 
accordingly (This means I do not want to hear sob stories about how you 
cannot participate because you want to try and blame your spouse or your 
HOA or whatever... plan accordingly and come out to have some fun... and 
bring your spouse and kids with you as this is very much a family event 
... but leave your HOA at home as they are not welcomed at the event.).

Again, please do not hesitate to contact me about participating in this 
event. The available slots are steadily filling up.

Thanks,
Owen
AK7AR