Inside the World’s Biggest Ham Radio Contest: CQ WW SSB with the Contest Crew

Bill W9KKN, Dan N6MJ, and Randy K5ZD are here to get you pumped for the CQ Worldwide SSB contest, the most anticipated event on the ham radio calendar, set for October 26-27. With a wealth of experience, they’ve shared some valuable insights to help you prep and make the most of the contest weekend. Randy kicked things off by breaking down the contest’s structure, emphasizing the importance of DX contacts and multipliers. With over 8,000 logs submitted and 25,000 stations participating, there’s always plenty of activity, making this a truly global event. The team shared practical advice, from understanding propagation patterns and preparing equipment to the necessity of clean audio and proper station tuning. As Randy mentioned, it's all about maximizing time in the chair—be rested, plan ahead, and make sure your family knows you’re booked for the weekend! Dan highlighted the importance of studying logs to anticipate band conditions, while Bill emphasized testing everything in advance. Whether you’re running solo or part of a big multi-op setup, knowing the station inside out and having your equipment dialed in is key. For those tuning in to hear where this crew will be operating, here’s the scoop: - Bill W9KKN will be operating from ZF1A in the Cayman Islands, joining a high-power multi-single team. - Dan N6MJ will be on the West Coast from ND7K, aiming for a strong showing stateside. - Randy K5ZD will head to St. Kitts, operating as part of the V47T multi-two team. - Host, Kevin W1DED, will be participating with a multi-operator effort as J62K in St. Lucia at Bill J68HZ's station With some friendly banter and a focus on fun, the crew emphasized that no matter your goals—whether it's scoring high or just enjoying some contacts—this contest has something for everyone. They wrapped up with a reminder to stay organized, be considerate of band plans, and, most importantly, enjoy the weekend! Catch the full interview on W1DED Worldwide Ham Radio, and don’t forget to join the conversation by commenting below. Make sure to subscribe to stay updated on more content like this!