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 he Marathon went well again, in part thanks to our efforts as amateur radio operators and the services we provide. With over 8000 runners, wheelchair entries and walkers, the 34 positions staffed by volunteer Amateur Radio operators provided valuable communications and reporting for the 26 mile course. About 40 amateurs participated in the effort, coordinated by Pat Kennedy, KD7HDP, and Pete Rodabaugh, W7PR. Approximately 50% of these volunteers are members of PARC, with other volunteers coming from as far away as Canby. The efforts of all these volunteers for this event are very much appreciated by the PARC Coordinators and the Portland Mara-thon Committee.
Amateurs again served as navigators and radio operators in the five "Sag" vans used to bring runners or walkers back to the Start/Finish area if they were unable to complete the course. These vans were dispatched on a dedicated frequency, separate from the main net frequency, with Bruce McCain, N7XB, acting as Net Control. Special thanks to Lee Hopper, NB7F, Steve Tarr, KD7MRX, and John Rollins, KD7BCY, who put together seven APRS trackers that were installed on the pick up vans and bicycles. The significant problems we had this year were again related to delays in picking up runners with the vans, caused by several issues. These will be addressed next year and hopefully solved.
Special thanks to those who helped with planning, equipment construction, setup and teardown:
KD7HDP, KC7GFX, WA7AXO, NB7F, K7ZSK, KC7PDI, KC7PXF, Bill Krause, KD7MRX, KD7BCY, W7PR.
Thanks to all, and see you next year!
-W7LT
Ed. Note: The operators who took part in this year's Marathon are listed by their positions on page 4.
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