ARI La Spezia (IQ1SP): A Legacy of Radio, Experimentation, and Community Service

ARI La Spezia (IQ1SP): A Legacy of Radio, Experimentation, and Community Service

La Spezia, Italy – The A.R.I. (Associazione Radioamatori Italiani) Sezione di La Spezia, identified by its call sign IQ1SP, was established on July 28, 1946. Comprised of passionate radio communication enthusiasts, the section gathers for study and experimentation, dedicating itself to educational and social activities related to the amateur radio service. Its members share experiences about the passion for radio, its social utility, the development of telecommunication activities supporting Civil Protection, and general territory protection. The section currently boasts around eighty members.

Since November 2016, the section has been named in honor of "Gino Montefinale."

The section is located at VIA FONTEVIVO 52, 19124 LA SPEZIA SP. For inquiries, you can contact President IZ1ZCT Mascolo Roberto.

The section is open every Wednesday from 3:00 PM onwards, and on the first Friday of the month from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM (excluding holidays).

For more information, visit their website: www.arilaspezia.it.


A Glimpse into History: Early Radio Assistance

An archival photo from the first half of the 1960s captures the early spirit of ARI La Spezia. The image shows ARI members providing radio assistance for a motorcycle hill climb from Pegazzano to Biassa. Pictured from left to right are:

  • I1VAB Giulio Sanguineti, a researcher at CERN Geneva.
  • I1CPI Schiavo Lena, a Dentist (SK - Silent Key, meaning deceased).
  • I1BIU Claudio Donadoni, head of the ENEL instrument laboratory (SK).

This snapshot highlights the section's long-standing commitment to applying amateur radio skills for public service, even in its early decades.

Advanced Repeater Network

ARI La Spezia manages a DX (long-distance communication) station located on Monte Verrugoli at approximately 750 meters above sea level. This strategic location hosts their radio bridges, enhancing communication capabilities across the region:

  • VHF FM/C4FM Yaesu Fusion repeater: IR1CB RV57
  • UHF repeater: IR1UQ RU014

In addition, the following UHF repeaters are also active:

  • IR1UBT RU007 from Monte S. Nicolao
  • IR5UDR RU019 from Monte Fabei

As with all provincial branches, ARI La Spezia plays a crucial role as part of the larger ARI (Associazione Radioamatori Italiani).

Reading next

ARI Loano (IQ1LA): A Section Dedicated to DX and Community
ARI Imperia (IQ1IM): A Journey from Passion to Permanent Home

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