Greetings Fellow Amateur Radio Enthusiast, aka HAM!
I hope you are doing well! I wanted to share some exciting news about an upcoming event, the Harbison 50K/25K Trail Race, which will take place in Columbia, SC, at the beautiful Harbison State Forest on January 4th. This challenging race features a mix of technical single-track trails, fire roads, wide paths, and stream crossings, with plenty of rocks, roots, and mud along the way.
As with any race of this magnitude, the event’s success depends heavily on our volunteers’ support and dedication. Your involvement would significantly impact the experience for both participants and spectators. Columbia Amateur Radio Club Volunteers will assist with course communications that provide valuable information and ensure the safety of our runners.Effective communication is crucial at events like the Harbison 50K. In the past, our teams have played a key role in helping runners navigate the course, assisting injured runners, and providing real-time runner data. Whether guiding participants, relaying updates on race progress, or answering questions, effective communication ensures the event runs smoothly and safely for everyone involved.
Rober N2RB said, “How will you power the forward operating base you’re tasked with setting up if you can’t plug into your vehicle’s power? How long will your power supply last? Which antenna should you use? Is a handheld radio sufficient, or do you need something more? What equipment can you take, set up, and operate in the field to complete the mission? Have you practiced using it? How prepared are you for comfort in cold weather? How will you handle both expected and unexpected rain? These are the types of lessons you and your team will learn during the Harbison 50K adventure. A person must understand their limitations.”
They say practice makes perfect, and every year, I discover something new about myself, my gear, and my planning. I learned which ideas worked (or didn’t work as well) and which additional gear would have been functional. Hmm, note to self: does Coleman make a reclining camp chair? Does Mountain House offer meals that fit the diet my doctor suggests?
Well said, Robert. This event is a great way to test your gear for possible all-day activations and how well you are prepared for any weather, including cold, wet, and warm. How will you power your radios? As the saying goes, pack light; it’s a short trip. What food will you pack for the day?
We would love to have you on board! If you’re interested in volunteering or have any questions, please reply to [email protected]. Your support means everything to us and to the runners taking on this incredible challenge.
Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to hearing from you!
Warm regards,
Jim Lathan, W4JLP
Columbia Amateur Radio Club, President
