2026 DCARC Awards
Announcing the 2026 Club Operating Awards!
Celebrate Your Skills • Push Your Stations • Have Some Fun on the Bands
As we turn the dial into a brand-new year, it’s time once again to recognize the operators in our Amateur Radio club who go the extra mile (or the extra thousand miles!) with their on-air accomplishments. We are excited to announce the 2026 Club Operating Awards, designed to encourage activity, sharpen operating skills, and celebrate the spirit of radio exploration.
This year’s awards focus on one of the most exciting achievements in ham radio: DXCC — confirming contacts with 100 or more distinct DX entities. Whether you’re chasing signals across the globe on HF or grabbing those elusive long-haul contacts on VHF/UHF, this is your chance to shine.
Click HERE to download the tracking spreadsheet!
2026 Award Categories
🏆 Most HF DXCC (SSB, CW, Digital)
Separate awards will be given for each mode. Whether you’re a phone operator punching through the pile-ups, a CW enthusiast working the bands the traditional way, or a digital-mode aficionado making magic with FT8 or other modes, every path to DXCC counts. And once you get to 100, keep going! The winner will be the individual with the most entities!!!
🏆 Most VHF/UHF DXCC (SSB, CW, Digital)
Our VHF/UHF DXCC categories take on a fun twist: states and provinces count as “DX.” These awards recognize operators who push the limits of VHF/UHF propagation—whether through tropospheric ducting, meteor scatter, E-skip, or just good station engineering. Every new state, province or country you contact brings you one step closer to the top of the standings. Separate awards will be given for SSB, CW, and Digital modes.
How to Participate
Participation is simple:
- Keep accurate logs of your 2026 contacts. We’ve even provided a spreadsheet to assist.
- Submit your totals at the end of the year.
- Contacts must be made between January 1 and December 1, 2026.
So start planning your strategy, checking your antennas, and fine-tuning your station.
Why Participate?
These awards aren’t just about numbers—they’re about:
- Improving operating skills
- Experimenting with antennas and propagation
- Encouraging club activity and fellowship
- Challenging yourself to grow as an operator
- Celebrating your accomplishments with fellow hams
Whether you’re a seasoned DXer or someone looking to dive deeper into the hobby, the 2026 awards are a great opportunity to stretch your capabilities and enjoy the thrill of radio.
Start Calling CQ!
The world is waiting to be worked—one contact at a time. Fire up the rig, spin the dial, and let’s make 2026 a year full of great signals, strong friendships, and memorable operating achievements.
Good luck, and may the propagation gods smile upon your station!