Randy Thompson, K5ZD, is fresh off logging over 6,000 QSOs in the World Wide Award program and brings serious—and seriously helpful—advice for anyone looking to sharpen their contesting skills. Joined by Chris Hurlbut, KL9A, this episode of Contest Crew dives deep into how operators can break through pile-ups, improve their rate, and avoid common pitfalls. Randy doesn’t hold back as he shares his observations from the front lines of massive pile-ups, offering tips like calling off-frequency, timing your calls strategically, and sending your call only once (seriously—just once!). His candid feedback, bordering on venting, gets a playful counterpoint from Chris, who offers a virtual hug to lighten the mood. Together, they keep the conversation engaging, blending sharp contesting insights with humor. Chris brings his own seasoned perspective, recalling stories of operators like KR2Q who excel with minimal power, and adds tips for navigating two simultaneous pile-ups. From recognizing your call when it’s returned to setting up crisp, clear audio for phone operations, this episode is packed with practical advice for both new and experienced contesters. By the end, Randy’s “therapy session” turns into an insightful guide for anyone looking to up their game in ham radio contests. Join the conversation, and don’t forget to subscribe to W1DED Worldwide Ham Radio for more episodes like this!
Good info. Would have been good if you had of touched on the art of working split and what part of the spread to send your call. I like working the top or bottom end of the split range as the QRM is only on "one side" of your tx freq. OR listen for a 59 (599) being sent TO the DX and camp on that freq knowing it will be heard by the DX station. Good DX
One thing that drives me crazy is when someone makes a contact. then ask the operator for his call sign!! YOU SHOULD KNOW HIS CALL SIGN BEFORE YOU CALL!!!!
Hmm.. I feel that pileups are caused by a lack of "Air Traffic Control." The station being called should moderate better and the stations calling be more considerate. It's not the number of QSO's - but the quality of establishing them. Better operating etiquette all around would be most welcome.
sometimes you hear someone for quite a while but you can't quite get the call completely but could ask them to say it slower when you get their attention. Ive read the etiquete rules but sometimes you can vary a bit.