1^st 80m CC Datamodes Contest 11^th February 2026

The 80m Datamodes CC season got underway with 146 entries submitted, this being down by 20 entries on last year. Whilst conditions were generally favourable for the first hour, several reported propagation changes after 2100. Once again there was evidence of folk being a little excited and overdriving the audio stages, or forgetting to turn off the compressor. This only loses QSOs not gains them.

The event is one that is a firmly established favourite within the community as the length and timing works nicely for many. Also it is nice that our contest is supported by our near European neighbours as their calls in the mix always add spice. I note that a few worked S5702DX, an unusual call and QRZ.COM revealed it is a special call by Radio Club Celje - S53EOP to remember one of their silent Key members Slavko, S57DX.

So to the results, Clubs first where we see Norfolk ARC in the Local section, as last year, once again have mobilised their members and are setting what may well be an unassailable lead early on leaving Newbury & DARS a somewhat distant 2nd place with Sheffield & DWS in 3rd place. In the General section it is a much closer affair with the usual teams battling it out once again. Three As are in 1st place with De Montfort University ARC holding 2nd place whilst Echelford ARS are in 3rd place. However a strong performance from the Three As in the SSB leg sees them building quite a lead overall.

In the individual results wins were recorded for:-

G4ENZ in the 100W-A Section

M4N (G4IZZ) in the 10W-A Section

GW5P(GW0EGH) in the 100W-U Section

G4PIQ in the 10W-U section.

Well done to all stations.

Our thanks to John Barber GW4SKA for putting GW6XX on the air for the test giving away 95 valuable 5 point QSOs.

Until we RY again on the 2^rd March, good DX

73 de Simone Wilson, M0BOX

80m Data Adjudicator