The Texas QSO Party occurs on the last full weekend in September. The 2013 dates are the 28th and 29th of September. Operating times are from 1400Z on SATURDAY to 0200Z on SUNDAY and from 1400Z to 2000Z on SUNDAY. (This break of times is to ensure safety of the mobile operators and keeps them from driving/setting up in the dark.) Operation on all bands except on 60 meters, 30 meters, 17 meters, and 12 meters is permitted. Stations may work the entire contest period. Be sure to submit your scores by October 31.
This is a great chance to work your fellow Texans and it’s fun, too! Just read the rules at: http://www.txqp.net/ and try to work as many stations in Texas as you can. BUT WAIT! You are in Texas, too, so try to work as many states and countries as you can. Just call: “CQ Texas QSO Party”. Each new state or country counts as a multiplier.
No matter how many, or how few stations you work, turn in your score as per instructions on the home page.
This year, W2IK will again operate as a mobile, single op, using phone. He will be operating mainly on 40 meters (other bands as requested and as time permits – up to 440 SSB) and will activate the following counties:
- Brewster
- Pecos
- Terrell
- Val Verde
- Crockett
- Sutton
- Schlecher
- Menard
- Kimble
- Dimmit
- Zavala
- LaSalle
- Frio
- McMullen
Even if you aren’t competing in the contest, it’s a chance to get those counties if you are a county hunter.
Also, read Little Contests For “Little Guns” so you’ll be aware of how a “little gun” can do well in a state QSO party. You might even want to operate with some fellow ham club members as a multi-op. Above all…. HAVE FUN!
Bob W2IK
