Operating Excellence

Contesting & Field Readiness

Amateur Radio Contests

Build operating skill through competition, strategy, and shared club activity on every band.

Meetings • 3rd Tuesday • 7:00 PM
Location • Fairhaven Volunteer Fire Station - Center Hill Rd.
Contest Management System Contact Contest Team

Upcoming events • Practical tips • Club participation resources

Compete
3
Featured contests
4
Tip categories
All levels
Operator welcome
  • Contest calendar and activity overview
  • Proven operating and logging strategies
  • Mentoring path for first-time contestants

Upcoming Contests

Mark your calendar for these exciting amateur radio contests

SSB
ARRL DX Contest (SSB)

March 2-3, 2025

Work DX stations on 160-10 meters

SSB
CQ WPX Contest (SSB)

March 29-30, 2025

Work as many prefixes as possible

Mixed
ARRL Field Day

June 28-29, 2025

Emergency preparedness exercise

Contest Management System

Contest Success Tips

Proven strategies to improve your contest performance

PREPARATION
Preparation Tips
  • Study the contest rules thoroughly before participating
  • Test all equipment well in advance of the contest
  • Plan your station layout and operation schedule
  • Prepare logging software and practice using it
  • Check antenna system and connections
OPERATING
Operating Tips
  • Use proper contest exchange format
  • Keep a steady rhythm when calling CQ
  • Log contacts immediately to avoid duplicates
  • Take regular breaks to maintain focus
  • Listen before transmitting to avoid interference
STRATEGY
Strategy Tips
  • Focus on multipliers early in the contest
  • Work different bands as propagation changes
  • Plan sleep schedule for multi-day contests
  • Monitor band conditions and adjust accordingly
  • Practice efficient keyboard shortcuts
POST-CONTEST
Post-Contest Tips
  • Submit your log before the deadline
  • Double-check log for accuracy and duplicates
  • Calculate your score properly
  • Review your performance for future improvement
  • Share your experience with other club members

Contest Resources & Links

Essential resources for successful contesting

Contest Calendars
Logging Software
Contest Clubs

Ready to Join the Contest Fun?

W5OBM members regularly participate in contests throughout the year. Whether you're a seasoned contester or just getting started, we welcome you to join our contest activities!

Team Efforts

Multi-operator fun

Learn & Improve

Elmering available

Station Sharing

Access to club station

Competition

Individual & club scores

Join W5OBM Contest Questions Join Our Net
Contest discussions during club meetings every 3rd tuesday • Contest planning on weekly nets • Mentoring for new contesters available