The allure of DX
is a very good thing, but can be bad at times. My buddy W3BBO describes it as an “obsession” or an “addiction”. I’d have to agree with him there. Once you get your first taste and get hooked, there’s no turning back. Add QRP power to the mix and, if you’re addicted to challenges – stick a fork in you, you’re done.
The bands were alive with signals again during lunchtime today. But yet, I only worked two stations. My addiction got in the way. I worked Laci HA0NAR in Hungary, who I have worked many times before. I also worked LY10NATO, who asked me to spot him, as he was calling CQ without many takers. Being in the car, away from the Internet, I didn’t have that luxury.
My downfall came when I heard TX6G on 12 Meters. He was LOUD. 599+ loud at times. I immediately thought, “Wow! THAT loud, here’s my chance to work them QRP.”. Not today, Grasshopper, not today.
Undoubtedly, if I wasn’t so hard headed, I could have worked at least three or four more stations in my limited time allotment. However, my stubborn Polish side got the better of me, and I did a Don Quixote, and chased a windmill.
The windmill won.
72 de Larry W2LJ
QRP – When you care to send the very least!
Love the Don Quixote reference I too tried for the elusive TX6G and was beaten down by the hammers that plagued the knight of the Sorrowful face.
Charles N1CAI