While rules are short, simple and well published; the actual event takes a 
lot of pre planning and preparation. Most contesters today use computer
logging programs to keep track of the contacts made, dupe contacts 
and to display a current or running total of points. 120,000 points isn't
unusual for the serious ham today.

Say your interested?...Ok imagine, putting together a single OP(operator), single tower station for the contest and you have just a month to get the tower up (90 ft) ;is Ok!, but the higher the better. Then you have a new radio just in to the shack, and the Contest software that you've never used before and the interface of all these things must come together like a well oiled machine.!  In time to make the show on the 4th  week end in October if your operating the phone contest or in March if your into CW (code) contesting.

If you do well you might just make one of the several categories that is 
awarded by the contests sponsor, CQ Magazine. If you think contesting is just a braggers hobby then take a look at the "HALL of FAME" listed on the CQWW.com page on the internet. Pretty impressive credentials and resumes on this listing.!

Now; if you really get hooked on this part of Ham radio, you might find
yourself off on one of the many expeditions that some of the contesters
participate in each year. Now your really in the prep. and travel leagues of the most challenging and exciting hobby on the planet.!

For more information on CONTESTING goto: http://www.cqww.com/