Stuart Hayes, VE3RGO, is living proof that you don’t need a "big gun" station to thrive in the world of amateur radio contesting. As a "small pistol" operator with modest equipment, Stuart shares how resourcefulness, persistence, and club camaraderie can lead to big wins and rewarding experiences. Despite having a simple setup, Stuart’s commitment to learning and competing has earned him remarkable contesting achievements. A central theme of this conversation is Stuart's deep connection to the Kitchener-Waterloo Amateur Radio Club—a century-strong community that embraces all aspects of ham radio and fosters a supportive environment for operators at every level. Whether it’s running a virtual licensing course or encouraging members to dive into state QSO parties, the club’s leadership excels at turning newcomers into lifelong enthusiasts. Stuart’s journey, from QRP beginnings to national contest wins, illustrates how participation and a willingness to try can make contesting a fun and attainable goal. His story also highlights how activities like Parks on the Air (POTA) provide valuable practice for handling pileups and improving operating skills. Join the conversation and let us know about your contesting experiences! And don’t forget to subscribe to W1DED Worldwide Ham Radio for more inspiring stories from the amateur radio community.
Enjoyed this video. Stuart and I have a similar path to the hobby, I’ve only been licensed since 2020. I also run a modest station, 100 watts into either a hex beam or an EFHW. I second the narration from @VE3RGO, as a new operator, give it a go. Just do a look ahead for the contest rules and exchange so you’re ready to go. You may be surprised by your results. The club contesting activity at KWARC sounds like a great time. I am a member of two local clubs, neither seems to have a contesting component. Maybe time to put out some feelers. (Thanks for the QSOs Stuart, my log shows two contest contacts and one POTA). 73 cal VE6CLG
Great interview... lots of QSOs with Stuart in the log... Stuart VE9CF New Brunswick https://www.outnaboot.ca
I've been a little pistol for most of my ham life except 1990-1998 which I had an amp. Low power, restricted antennas and operating time that most people answer the higher power stations instead of the weaker signals.Us little pistols don't stand a chance in these dx-peditions. Even when the dx operators say they will listen for the little guy. I don't jump in on these dx-pedtions because they are not fair. The used to go by call areas, but not anymore, and that's one reason we don't stand a chance. Because the little guys would be heard if they would go by call areas and announce what parts of the world they are working, so most times we don't stand much of a chance. Seems funny when you hear these big signals yelling their call signs and their signals are 20 over S 9 their not 1.5 kw, you know darn well their more than the legal limit.
Nice interview! I like competing in the same category,low power and a limited antenna (EFHW). I'm looking forward to competing with Stuart. It's fun watching other competing stations on the Contest Online ScoreBoard and trying to keep up.
