Saturday, January 28, 2023

Photos from the Central Florida POTA meet-up

I didn't make a single contact at this POTA event, but had a great time.

The cool morning, pre-Winter FD event, took place at Colt Creek State Park and I finally got a chance to put a face and handshake to those I've worked numerous times, namely Jerry K7UPJ and Bill K4NYM.

Over a dozen stations were set up - band-pass filters did their job! - CW, SSB and FT8 were all represented on multiple bands.

I couldn't help but notice the correlation between POTA operating and RVing - many of those shown here roam the country, activating parks from coast to coast. 

The photos:

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That's Jerry K7UPJ and Bill K4NYM (seated), both avid FL CW POTA ops

 

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YL's, Marines and Wolf River Coils...
 

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Antennas galore, even a kite-tenna was attempted...

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...but not enough wind at this early hour. That's Lisa KC1YL at the helm

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I heard Europe being worked from the gazebo

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Bill has an amazing go-box built around a Xiegu G90 and RPi

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This was a fun POTAing/RVing couple to talk to. Watch out for the gators!

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This little harmonic took a shine to my QRP dog

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A fun day with many in attendance

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4 comments:

  1. Wonderful photos, John! It's amazing how POTA has formed this dynamic community of outdoor radio enthusiasts. I wish I could have joined y'all.

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    Replies
    1. Yes, it made me realize how much a facet of ham radio POTA has become. I think it may even be the entry point into the hobby for many new ops - it certainly gets exposure outside the hobby. Contrary to the stereotype, there were plenty of younger people and YL's there.

      73,
      John

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  2. Excellent writeup and pictures. Good idea to take a picture of the signup entries. Good point about the value of POTA as an entry point. I'm looking forward to the next one and hope I don't have a schedule conflict. 73, Jerry

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Jerry - good to meet you in person. See you next week at Hamvention.

      73,
      John

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