The ARRL Sweepstakes contest was introduced in 1930 by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL). This annual event quickly became one of the most popular and enduring contests in the amateur radio community. The Sweepstakes contest challenges operators to make as many contacts as possible with other stations across North America, exchanging a specific set of information that includes a serial number, precedence, call sign, check (the operator’s first year of licensing), and the section (geographical location). The contest is held in two modes: CW (Morse code) and phone (voice), typically on separate weekends. The ARRL Sweepstakes promotes technical proficiency, strategic operating skills, and friendly competition among amateur radio enthusiasts, reinforcing the principles of the hobby and fostering camaraderie within the community.
