We are pleased to report on the successful participation in our first CW Contest as the newly formed Thames Valley Contest Group (TVCG).
The TVCG is based in Binfield, Bracknell, England, operating from the QTH of Nick, M0NPK. We are a group of local radio amateurs who came together with the shared goal of making contesting accessible to everyone.
Our operators included a range of experience, from seasoned CW contesters to enthusiastic newcomers. Everyone participated, and the atmosphere was productive—focused on learning, mutual support, and teamwork.
A significant thank you goes to Nick (M0NPK) for providing the station and facilities. Preparation started several weeks prior to the contest and involved installing new high-power TX bandpass filters, a 3-element Yagi, and automatic antenna switches. The team successfully completed the setup despite a cold spell, finishing just before the contest weekend.
Operating under the callsign M6N, the initial plan for Multi-Single quickly evolved into a Multi-Two operation once the freshly set-up second station was proven operational.
Station & Results Summary:
Operating Positions: Two full stations, featuring the ICOM IC-7850 (run) and ICOM IC-7760 (search & pounce).
Antennas: Marconi “T” (160m), Dipole (80m), SteppIR (40m), and an A3S Yagi + fan dipole (20/15/10m).
Contest Strategy: A full operator schedule was followed. Lower bands were favoured after sunset, and 20M delivered good multipliers. QSO rates on 15M and 10M, while productive during daylight openings, were slightly below expectations.
The strong teamwork and enthusiasm were defining elements of this first participation. We look forward to competing together in future major contests as the TVCG.
73, TVCG