Some say, as one gets older the years seem to pass more quickly. I am beginning to believe that they are correct! 2013 has been a busy year, with the pages of the calendar flipping at a unbelievably quick pace. I began the year still riding a large wave of enthusiasm and personal accomplishment having just returned home from my adventures in the sub-Antarctic. The Campbell Island (NZ) 2012 DXpedition continued to have “legs” throughout the year:
- A visit to the International DX Convention in Visalia, CA (April, 2013)
- ZL9HR Team reunion, Dayton Hamvention (May, 2013)
- Several Local radio club presentations regarding the Campbell Is. DXpedition
- Hosting a DX related forum at the Greater Louisville Hamfest (September, 2013)
What a wonderful experience, not to mention the great friendships that were forged during that great adventure.
As I write this, the VK9MT Mellish Reef 2014 DXpedition is only about 90 days from being “on the air.” Our Team has accomplished so much in the planning of this DXpedition. There is still many things to do, but the finish line is coming into view as we prepare to complete final logistical tasks prior to leaving for Australia.
Once in Australia, there will be very little downtime, as there is much to accomplish prior to sailing on the EVOHE. Enough cannot be said about the leadership and vision displayed by Gene/K5GS, Les/W2LK, and Pista/HA5AO during the course of this project.
It was great to have been a part of the fantastic 2013 ARRL Field Day effort put on by the Bullitt AmateurRadio Society (KY4KY). The BARS club was able to place first in the 2F Category, fulfilling a long-time quest by many of its active members. A few stats regarding this effort:
_ First Place, 2F Category _ 96th best score out of total 2,548 entries
_ #11 in overall score in the Great Lakes Division
_ #2 in Kentucky in overall score (beat by 6A station)
Kudos to event organizer, Rickey/KC4S, for his record keeping, organizational skills, and overall leadership during this event. I am already looking forward to Field Day 2014!
As the New Year looms on the horizon, I can only hope that it holds the promise of being as eventful and memorable as 2013!
Happy New Year!