Within weeks, ham radio competitors hungry for one of only 50 team slots in the WRTC 2026 will have their first chance to earn qualifying points. The CQ Worldwide DX SSB contest in late October is the first of only fifteen contests over the next couple of years where points can be earned. In this interview with London area contester and WRTC chairman, Mark Haynes M0DXR, you'll learn more about how the best of the best contesters qualify, how various operating categories are weighted, and the meticulous planning that is required to make this 24-hour contest fair, efficient, and enjoyable. Mark estimates that several hundred people - competitors, referees, site managers, sponsors and spectators - will all converge in England in July 2026 to celebrate this milestone 10th World Radiosport Team Championship. If the conversation leaves you curious to learn more from a competitor's vantage point, look for my earlier interviews with recent winner Yuri VE3DZ, Randy K5ZD and Tim K3LR.
Thank you, Jay! It's been a privilege talking to, and learning from, my interviewees. I'm especially optimistic about the hobby when I see (younger) hams like Mark taking on important leadership roles. Thanks for watching. 73, Kevin
What a great interview Kevin, Listening to Mark opens your eyes to the colossal amount of work for all that will be involved, and of course all those previous. Mark sounded the right guy to helm the team, and made me feel proud to be a Ham radio operator, 73 Richard
Almost Amateur Radio Olympiad, thank you Mr. Kevin Thomas for the interview and giving us the details of the event (WRTC) for this 2026.
