It had been many years since Amarillo had a full 24-hour Field Day, but the June 28-29 event certainly showed that it can still be done! Except for one MAJOR thunderstorm Saturday night, that forced some moving around of equpment for a time, the weather was pleasant both days. And the Southeast Park location did encourage a few casual visitors who were at the location for other reasons.
ABOVE: This crew was getting ready to raise the military crank-up tower, provided by Eddy, KD5BUG.
Members of the set-up crew (above) raised the VHF antenna.
Eddie, N5SUJ, (above) made sure the mast was secure. It could be rotated from the base using a mechanism Eddie had made from vehicle power window parts!
ONE OF OUR VIP VISITORS
ABOVE: Amarillo Mayor Debra McCartt received a brief explanation of Field Day and Amateur Radio from Henry, N5HPJ, who was in charge of the GOTA (Get On The Air) station.
PEDAL POWER!
One special station, constructed by Dan, WA8YYE, made seven official contacts on PSK31-- with "Pedal Power"-- voltage to charge a battery produced by reversing an 18-volt power drill, turned by the axle of a wheel barrow tire-- being rotated by the wheel of an exercise bike! Several hams took turns on the pedals:
Here is a closer view of the components:
And below: Dan took a cola and charging break while Lalon, KC5HKT; John, K5WZF and Charlie, W5CEH-- watched with great interest!
