Chuck Cullian, K0RF, and George Schultz, W0UA, have been contesting together for an incredible 47 years. Their story begins when Chuck moved to Colorado and sought top operators to join his multi-multi station, with George quickly becoming a key figure. Over the decades, they’ve built a formidable team, overcoming the unique challenges of operating from the W0 call area—playfully referred to as “the black hole” due to the geographic disadvantage in major contests. Chuck and George discuss the evolution of ham radio contesting, from the days of pencil-and-paper logs to the advent of computer logging and internet integration. They share insights on the technical complexities of running a competitive station and the dedication needed to thrive in a location without the geographic advantages of being on the East Coast. Despite these hurdles, their team consistently performs at a high level, demonstrating the perseverance and passion that defines the best ham radio contesters. The conversation also touches on the importance of leadership and teamwork, offering a glimpse into how they've maintained such a competitive station for so long. They reflect on the future of ham radio, particularly the role of digital modes and initiatives like Parks on the Air, which could inspire the next generation of operators.
The thing is, I'm always jealous of Colorado contest stations. They always have great signals, and beat me in every pile-up. Turns out, it's not so much luck of geography as planning, grit, and pluck!
Field Day 1969. George op'ing my SB-101. Hallicrafters HA-1 keyer. Me logging. George (L) and I, Field Day 1969. He's operating the TR-3 he mentions in the vid. I'm using my SB-101.
Thank you gents for sharing so much of your knowledge and experience with us. With my noisy cricket FT-857D and Buddipole kit, it makes my day when the DX calls "0's only" lol. Am always amazed at the rate and duration of how long you guys operate. I'm usually an S&P guy but did two HF SOTA activations a few years ago. It was an eye opener how much brain power it took to listen, log and talk. Thanks again for the vid. One to watch a few more times. 73, Carl
Wow, this brings back memories! Chuck Cullian provided my very first introduction to ham radio, my father and he were co-workers at Litton Industries and one day Dad took me to see visit his place, in Temecula, I believe. Wish I could remember the details of Chuck's shack but I do recall he had multiple telephone poles supporting his antennas and there were lots of tarantulas running around outside! As a little kid, I was probably more impressed by the tarantulas but during the drive home we talked a lot about amateur radio and the thought of it intrigued me for years. After I got my own license, he was featured on the cover of a magazine (CQ, probably) and the name jumped from the page and spurred my memory. It's good to see he's still active and thriving.
Great Video of two great CO Ops.. I don't think CO is a blackhole or at least I don't seem to have a problem winning or placing at the top of many Contests only in my third year in this hobby and the plaques from CQ and ARRL to prove it
Good video, I found it quite interesting to watch. K0RF’s place is only a few miles from me and I pass by regularly. I wish the video would have included photos of his impressive antenna farm and station.
Great story and comments! I find it next to impossible to hear anyone from Colorado or Montana, Wyoming Utah even using FT 8. I had dickens of a time completing my all for my USA 50 State award and the few contacts I made, they didn't bother to confirm via QRZ.
There is no black hole into the Philippines! During contest CO is usually stronger then W6 stations the problem is numbers W6 has more hams. For some reason DU has a pipeline into CO, MN and TX. Stations in ND, SD and Ne probably have fine signals, but that is also a number game active hams in those states during a contest will be small. Larry DU3LA N0QM Ex VQ9LA
Colorado isn't a black hole. It's at high altitude with big prairies to the east and lots of mountains. Western Oregon is an RF hole to much of the world. It's 1000 miles west of Denver. Scott N7JI
