One Week to WRTC: Strategy, Gear and Last-Minute Prep
About this episode
The episode discusses the final preparations and strategies for WRTC 2026 with various expert guests.
The world's best contesters are almost on the air, and this is what the final days before WRTC really look like. Just days before WRTC 2026 begins, I'm joined by Randy Thompson K5ZD, Dan Craig N6MJ, Chris Hurlbut KL9A, Bill Fehring W9KKN, and special guest Tim Duffy K3LR for one last conversation before everyone heads to the UK. From last-minute radio problems and travel logistics to strategy, pit crews, youth teams, and the new live scoreboard by the World Radio League, this episode captures the anticipation that only comes before the biggest event in contesting. Chris and Dan discuss preparing for what could be their final WRTC together, Randy shares the realities of sorting through contest equipment just days before departure, and Tim offers perspective from his European tour, Friedrichshafen, and meetings with many of the operators who will soon be on the air. We also talk about the expanded WRTC media coverage, the stories worth following beyond the leaderboard, and why every amateur radio operator can become part of the event simply by getting on the air and making contacts. From experienced veterans to the next generation of youth competitors, WRTC 2026 promises compelling…
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More episodes of Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio
- What to Expect at the 2026 Cincinnati Hamfest
- Inside WRTC 2026: What It Took to Pull Off Ham Radio's Biggest Event
- Inside WRTC: Contest Crew North America vs Europe
- How Top Contesters Prepare for WRTC (Q5 Clip)
- The World's Best Contesters Have One Request: Spot Everyone
- Why WRTC Is Ham Radio's Ultimate Equalizer
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