[SOC] Fw: [CQ-Contest] You can win a contest!

[Tom Osborne]

Hi Mike

'Leveling the playng field' is something contesters have talked and 
complained about for years.  But, the WRTC is about the closest thing you 
can get to that.

Last year in Russia, all of the stations were set up FD style in the same 
field with the same height towers and the same antennas, exactly.  Only 
variables were the radios the participants used.  They even had a device to 
monitor output power that will give them away if they go to too much power. 
It is as close to being 'level' as you will ever get.  Operator skill is 
what it takes to win that one, not location.  73
Tom W7WHY


There is an element in contesting that believes that every parameter must be 
equalized. Oft heard is the "Level Playing Field".  And people who go in for 
such things can really get into a lather about it.  "How can we level the 
playing field so much that the only variable left is operating skill?" 
Interesting thought experiment, but given the nature of radio, is it even 
possible? Of course not. If you're going to have a worldwide contest, how 
are ya gonna compensate for location? 20 meter propagation is simply going 
to favor certain locations (read stations available to contact at the hop 
points) You can make 'em use identical antennas, but antennas are going to 
perform differently at different locations. Sometimes thought experiments 
should stay as thought.

And I'm fairly sure that the whole thing is sort of the bastard child of the 
"Everyone who get's a higher score than me is cheating - and probably most 
of the ones who score lower too!" movement.



- 73 de Mike N3LI -

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