The CQ Contest Hall of Fame (CHOF) was established by CQ magazine in September 1986. The program has maintained a consistent purpose to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to amateur radio contesting, both in support of others and in personal operating achievements. In addition, candidates are to be known for meaningful/measurable contributions to the hobby.
The HOF is currently managed by the World Wide Radio Operators Foundation (WWROF) in memory of CQ publisher Dick Ross K2MGA.
Nominations for the CHOF are evaluated annually, with a firm deadline for applications of March 1. Nominations may be made by individuals, clubs, or other organizations. The nominations are evaluated and voted on by the Directors of the major CQ contests (WW, WPX, 160, RTTY, VHF). The number of inductees is limited each year. Nominations are not held over, so they must be resubmitted for consideration each year.
The first member of the CHOF was Buzz Reeves, K2GL at a dinner organized in his honor. The CHOF presentation became a central element of the annual contest dinner soon after, which was held in conjunction with the Dayton Hamvention.
Induction into the CHOF is a true honor that demonstrates recognition by the contest community of what is often a lifetime of effort and contribution to the hobby and radiosport.