NAQCC Challenges

Unless it has been copied by other clubs since its inception in October 2004, our challenge concept is unique to the NAQCC, and we're proud of the idea.

Each month the NAQCC will have at least one challenge in which we challenge the members to accomplish a goal that we set forth for them. Non-members may also accomplish our challenges, but they are not eligible for any certificates or prizes. They will be listed in a separate section in the results. Each challenge will be somewhat different from all the others. The primary goal of the challenges is to increase CW and QRP activity so we can help preserve Morse Code on the bands and show that it is still a very viable, useful, and efficient mode of operation. All challenge QSO's must be 2X CW and you must be running QRP power. The stations you work can be using any power unless specifically stated otherwise.

Unlike sprints, which take place only a couple hours each month, our challenges encompass the entire month. The only exception is our annual June Field Day challenge. QSO's needed to accomplish the challenges can take place on any day of the month at any time.

We're proud of everyone who takes part in a challenge because they are helping the club goal of keeping CW alive and well. We'd like to see more and more participation in these challenges.

With the wide variety of activities represented by our challenges, everyone should find at least one challenge that interests them enough to accept, accomplish, and submit their results. Remember there is a club award based on consistent participation in our challenges and sprints. Also for the next several months, there will be a physical prize awarded to one member who accomplishes the challenge. These are beautiful hand-crafted wooden bug/paddle handles donated by their creator and maker Gregg, WB8LZG.

Here's what the first winner of the handles (Bruce WY7N) had to say about them: "Dear Gregg, Thanks for donating the paddle ends to the NAQCC!
I was the August winner of one set of your wooden paddle ends donated to NAQCC. I chose the Michigan Walnut, Bencher style set. They are lovely.
I should add that even though I won by default (no one else but me was eligible for the drawing in August), it felt like I had won a million bucks. I'm still very excited!
Believe it or not, when I heard I had won the set, I was uncertain if I would actually retrofit my chrome Bencher paddles. I'm fond of the clear plexiglass ends that are standard. I think they look cool. However, all indecision dissappeared after I hurriedly opened the package received from John Shannon. The wood and finish are beautiful. My Bencher paddles will soon be Black Tie!
When the retrofit is done, I'll get my camera out and do a write up on how happy I am and how great the paddle ends look. I'll have to shine up that chrome for the photo shoot!
Thanks again, and 73!"

You too can have a chance to share in Bruce's joy and delight by mastering our challenges, reporting your results and being entered in the monthly drawing. There is a whole new pool of entrants each month, and a person becomes ineligible after winning one set of handles.