Years ago (Early 2000's) I managed to consistently clean up in the Vermont QSO party- Usually 1st Place Bennington County and 3rd or 4th State.
I can't claim the results to any great skill, but rather just sticking with it and a lack of overall activity, especially in Bennington and Orange Counties.
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Times have changed since the Covid pandemic:
First, the rules have changed in that the final score tally is no longer by County.
Second, there has been a massive increase in the number of folks who have improved their skills and become competitive in contesting nationwide.
Third- FT8 may now be used in the VTQP
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In the advent of these changes, there are about four skilled and well-equipped stations in northern Vermont that operate two radios at once- one on CW/SSB and the other on FT8. This just isn't a possibility for me and doesn't trip my trigger as far as fun.
These past few years I just can't seem to bust my barrier at fifth place, I've concluded that I just can't compete with these more apt stations.
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To keep it fun while not worrying about a final score-
Whenever one operates in a contest, it is fun and beneficial to have some goals in mind to challenge yourself- not necessarily go strictly for a big score. Doing this makes us better operators overall.
These goals can be to:
Improve your last year's score.
Work at least 10,50, 100 (which will get you a certificate), or 250 contacts- any focused number to try to achieve.
Possibly work a few new DX.
See how close you can get to working all states in a weekend. (After all, they are LOOKING for VT!)
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I have decided that this year I will operate the VTQP QRP!?Maybe I've lost my mind, but I will keep my goals far below my previous runs. I will shoot for at least 250 contacts and attempt to work all states in a weekend. (As a reference my QRO contact count is more like 700)
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Long story short, I hope you get on the air and have some fun. It is nice to be "on the right side of a pileup". I do highly suggest that if you do, set some modest goals for yourself.
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73 de N1SP
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