n this special episode previewing the 7th Annual GoKit Challenge (March 21, 2026, at Double Tree Ranch Park in Highland Village, Texas), host Tank Radio interviews organizers Scott and Kelly about the event’s origins (starting 8 years ago over Whataburger discussions to inspire portable ham radio setups), its focus on education/sharing rather than pure competition, and how participants display their self-contained, battery-powered go kits (beyond just an HT—think full portable systems with radios, batteries, antennas, accessories, and use-case customizations for POTA, emergency response, public service events like races/marathons, or ARES support).
The challenge features free entry (rain or shine, setup from 7:30 AM, judging/awards ~noon, pavilion until ~4 PM), categories including HF/People’s Choice, Best Mobile (vehicle/trailer), and 50MHz+ (for Tech-class operators with VHF/UHF-focused kits), a peer-voting system using tickets dropped in labeled cups, acrylic plaques/mugs/license plates as prizes (displayed for a year), free breakfast tacos/coffee (with donations supporting Texas State Parks on the Air food), a fun raffle item (ham-useful gear, tickets ~$5-10), and emphasis on learning from each other (mentoring, battery efficiency, wiring ideas, etc.) even if kits are incomplete.
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Tank US Band Plan Pad – https://quirkyqrphamradios.etsy.com/listing/1657938891
Hoodies – https://grapevineamateurradio.com/products/tank-radio-hoodie-limited-time
Boonie Hats – https://www.gigaparts.com/tank-radio-logo-boonie-hat.html
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