In Memory of Lada Prajsner, OK2PAY

Subject: In Memory of Lada Prajzner, OK2PAY

Dear Friends and Members of the DX Community,

It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of Lada Prajzner, OK2PAY, on February 21, 2026.

On behalf of the entire DX Marathon leadership team, our staff, and the thousands of participants around the world who shared the bands with Lada, we extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and fellow operators in the Czech Republic and beyond.

Lada was truly one of the giants of our hobby. A remarkable operator and competitor, he achieved what few ever will — becoming a ten-time World Winner of the DX Marathon CW category, while also earning numerous world-class CW championship honors throughout his distinguished amateur radio career. His skill, dedication, and consistency set a standard admired across the global DX community.

Yet beyond the extraordinary achievements and scores was something even more meaningful. Lada represented the very spirit of DXing — patience, excellence in CW operation, fairness, and a lifelong passion for connecting people across borders through radio. Many DX Marathoners came to recognize his callsign instantly on the bands, knowing they were hearing one of the finest operators in the world.

His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will remain permanently woven into the history of the DX Marathon Program and the worldwide CW community he helped inspire.

We are grateful for the years Lada spent with us, for the example he set, and for the friendships he created across continents and cultures.

May he rest in peace, and may his signal continue to echo in the memories of all who had the privilege to work him.

With deepest sympathy,

Mark Wohlschlegel, WC3W On behalf of the DX Marathon Team, Staff, and DX Marathon Participants Worldwide