[SJDXA] multi-op CQWW WPX SSB & COVID19

[N2OO]

SJDXA members
My opinion. ....

First, here is the recent announcement from the RSGB

The RSGB Contest
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Based on the UK government suggestions to “social distance,” through June this year, multioperator entries will not be accepted in RSGB contests.  Also banned, more than one single op entry from a shared station in the same event.  Operations by family members living at the same QTH are still allowed.  A decision will be made on the IOTA Contest as regards this, in early June.  

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Here is the official announcement from CQ regarding the upcoming WPX SSB contest this weekend:

Safe Contesting Suggestions from CQ
If you're "sheltering in place" or otherwise stuck at home to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, keep in mind that the CQ World Wide WPX SSB Contest on the weekend of March 28-29 is the perfect way to have some fun and keep connected with the outside world.

However, we want to make sure you practice "safe contesting," especially if you're planning a multi-operator effort. 

A few suggestions:
* Consider staying at home and operating single-op (except for family stations)

* Consider remote multi-op with operators "traveling" to your station via the internet instead of in-person (if you're equipped for it and if your ops will all be legal)

* If you're too far along in planning an in-person multi-op operation, please follow "social distancing" recommendations, including:
setting up operating positions at least six feet (two meters) apart;
not sharing microphones/headphones/computer keyboards without first wiping them down with disinfectant wipes;
staggering meal breaks to keep from having everyone together at one time;
not sharing sleeping/napping spots,
not touching your face, and of course,
washing your hands for at least 20 seconds between every contact (well, maybe not quite that often, but you get the idea).

We want all of you not only to enjoy this contest but many more to come as well!

73, stay healthy, and good luck in the contest,
Your friends at CQ

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As the DX Editor for CQ, I was not in the loop on this decision (and would not be expected to be) since this is really a “contest” issue. However, after reading both the RSGB announcement and the CQ announcement, I felt strongly that on this one, the RSGB is right and I so advised the folks at CQ of my position.  

I fully discourage any multi-operator activity in ANY contests until the virus issue has been resolved.  
Contesting is not a reason to disregard your health, no matter the risk level.

73. Bob Schenck, N2OO

Sent from my iPhone 
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