OK, so I've been chasing Mount Athos the entire time I've been a licensed Ham Radio Operator. That's 39 years now. I "THINK" I finally snagged him.
If you have ever wondered what a "barely there" QSO sounds like, listen to this recording of me working SV2ASP/A (Monk Apollo) yesterday on 10 Meters.
A couple items of note on this Q. I never operate 10 Meters, but since it's an All Time New One (ATNO) for me, I had to take a peak when I saw the Mount Athos spots on the DX Cluster. And how he ever heard me is beyond me. I was running 1,500 watts so I guess it's possible. I know I gave him a 5/9 in the recording, but the last thing I wanted to do was confuse him with a 3/2 or something like that. If it does indeed turn out that I worked him, maybe it was a little "Divine Intervention" on his part? I have a feeling we're both praying... lol. Who knows? Heck, I may not be in his log at all (as weak as the QSO was). I had to play it back 20 times to build my confidence and I do believe I have it, a bunch of my radio friends think I have it, but Elder Apollo has the final say here.
What do you think? Is it a "good one"? Drop me your thoughts in the comment box. I'm curious to hear what you think.
SV2ASP/A and N0UN - 10 Meters SSB.
UPDATED. Just got Monk Apollo's (SV2ASP/A) QSL card today (December 22nd, 2011). Mount Athos finally worked and confirmed, good stuff!
Hi,
Yes, this is a good one. Even if you had QSB on the last letter, Monk Apollo wouldn’t never say “no problem” if he hadn’t got your call OK. And his answer’s timing matches perfectly with a “November” at the end, followed by Monk Apollo’s signature “you’re 59, 59″. You can definitely feel confident in it.
Well done !
73
Ronan, F8AFC
Thanks Ronan, I appreciate your input! Fingers are crossed!
73,
Wayne, N0UN
Wayne. That is a legitimate QSO on any band and I have at least around a half dozen just like that one from my days as WB8IAY, in Dayton, Ohio.
73, Steve – K0CS
Thanks for the input Steve! I’m also thinking it’s good too. Take care and see you at the next local get-together.
73,
Wayne, N0UN
Confirmed!
Now you got me watching the bands to see if I can find him on….grrrrrr thanks wayne !
Dear friends,
Does anybody know father Apollos active e mail address?
Regards,
Ioannis Haranas
don’t worry guys soon in June dxpedition going there with 10 people. 24/7 5 bands station will be work.
THIS IS GREAT NEWS! Thanks for posting!