McMurray Family

The local RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services) group, of which Mike, Martin, and I are members as ham radio operators, provides radio services for a number of public events during the year: bike races, the Chicago Marathon, and triathlons.

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The annual Des Plaines Canoe Race is unique in that it has its hardcore competitors, but also a large contingent of participants who just want to casually enjoy the scenery of the river. RACES liked the idea of having a radio operator on the water to give situation reports and so guess who paddled the 18.5K course?!

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Martin and Mike assisted along the course route at shoreline checkpoints where they kept track of special needs participants - diabetes, seizures... - and provided radio relays for any emergency services, if needed.