Memorial Day (May 25, 2015) was the scene of the annual 10K & 4K Washington Trail race through the hills and dales of Durham. More than 391 runners were lopping and puffing for up to two hours in the warm and slightly breezy sunny weather.

Durham ARES and other ham members provided a vital communication link along the race circuit. Chris NK1J was net control for, Scott N1KSX, Bill WB1DQT, Ruth KA1RIM, John W1UMN, Dan W1DMM, Dan KB1MMR, Mark KB1OAR, and John WA1TMA.

Race communication was on 146.535 Simplex and KB1MMR 446.925 Repeater that was cross-linked to the two meter simplex frequency. This arrangement provided coverage throughout, even in the normally dead areas on some of the race circuit. The annual race communications provide these hams with vital training for disaster assistance, such as shelter to EOC comms when required.

Happily there were no emergency situations for the team to report on, but did keep the race coordinators apprised of the runners status and leaders position.

Dan W1DMM Durham EC