70 MHz Trophy 2012

The number of entries fell slightly compared to 2011.  This was the first day of excellent summer weather following the recent deluges.  While this was excellent for the portable stations, it left those at home with conflicting chores to undertake!

Overall there were 168 stations recorded in the logs in 31 squares and ten countries (CT, EA8, EI, G, GD, GI, GM, GW, PA and ON).  Tropo conditions were rated as average to poor with deep QSB and high noise levels making life difficult.  GM4SIV/P made three contacts greater than 750 kms into PA.  There were seven sporadic E contacts completed into CT and EA8.

Debates regarding the length and timing of this event continue.  While some argue it should be shortened, nearly 20% of QSOs took place in the last two hours.  Some stations would like to start the event one hour earlier.  Comments are welcomed.

Logging standards were generally quite good, but in a multiplier contest the loss of one QSO can cause a large loss of points.  Logging errors were equally spread across all elements of the exchange.

Congratulations go to:

•  The Five Bells Group, GM4SIV/P, for winning the open section and hence are awarded the VHF Managers Trophy.
•  Terry, G3MXH, who won the single operator (fixed) section.
•  Erik, G8XVJ/P, for winning the single operator (others) section and, as the highest scoring single operator entry, is awarded the Four Metre Cup.
•  The three sections runners up: G8ZHP (completing a clean sweep in the open section for the Five Bells), G4FZN/P and G4ZTR.
•  David, G8LZE as the highest placed fixed station running 25watts or less into a single antenna.

These stations will receive certificates.

Roger - G4BVY