Public Service Events 

In prior years, MDARC members have provided communications for these events:

Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon

Bay To Breakers Race

MS Walk-A-Thon

Pacific South Trailride

Del Valle Trailride

Mount Diablo Challenge Bike Ride

2008 Events

It’s that exciting time of year when many ham radio operators from the Mt Diablo Amateur Radio Club become involved in doing radio team communications for various Public Service events that occur nearby. The events include long distance bike rides, bike races, horse trail rides, running races, walkathons, a March for Babies, Alcatraz swims, a half marathon, a triathlon, and the Pleasant Hill 4^th of July parade. The locations include beautiful scenic areas such as nearby Regional Parks and Wilderness Areas, Mt. Diablo State Park, municipal trails and parks, and the stunning San Francisco Waterfront and Bay. Some of the agencies and causes that we help are: Children’s Hospital of Oakland, the MS Society, the March of Dimes, the American Lung Association, and Save Mt. Diablo.

Radio operators are assigned to check points, or to support (SAG) vehicles, or are on bikes, or sometimes in boats. Radio communications in some of these areas can be a challenge, but very gratifying and a whole lot of fun! When you participate, consider bringing a family member or friend to show them the excitement of the ham radio hobby.

 Participating in these events is a thrilling experience for many different reasons. These include:

• The magic of radio transmissions

• The camaraderie of being part of a radio team that helps to ensure safety for hundreds, sometimes thousands, of event participants

• The chance to do something meaningful for a good cause

• The fun and satisfaction of using your radio equipment and opportunity to learn its various capabilities in real-life situations

• The beautiful places and settings that you get to enjoy

 For most events all you need is a hand-held 2 meter ham radio and an extra battery. A portable magnetic-mount antenna can come in handy. Some events allow off-road 4-wheel drive experiences.

MDARC will participate in these events during 2008:

March of Dimes March for Babies
Heather Farms Park, Walnut Creek
April 26, 2008
Radio Coordinator: Janice Fujii

25/50 Mile Diablo Trail Endurance Ride
Mt. Diablo (starting at North Gate)
June 21, 2008
Radio Coordinator: John Stuart