Dust off those keys and paddles! The CW Rookie Roundup — the last Rookie Roundup event for 2013 — takes place Sunday, December 22, 1800 through 2359 UTC. This is an excellent opportunity for new operators — for this event defined has having been first licensed in the current calendar year or the previous two calendar years, regardless of license class — to get on the air and learn new skills.

The idea behind the Rookie Roundup events is to encourage newly-licensed operators (“Rookies”) in North America (including territories and possessions) to experience competitive Amateur Radio operating on HF. Experienced operators are encouraged to participate and help the newcomers on the air or in person.

Old Timers, look for newer ops and inspire and instill your love for the “original digital mode” and consider hosting a ham radio newcomer or two at your station. The more operators on the air, the more fun.

Review the rules before the event and get familiar with logging and log submission. We hope to hear you on the air! The Rookie Roundup returns to SSB on Sunday, April 20, and to RTTY next August 17. — Mike DeChristopher, N1TA, ARRL Contest Branch Manager