[UK-CONTEST] NFD GW4TTA/P

[gw0etf at btinternet.com]

The Dragon ARC entered the Restricted section even though we were always going to struggle with operators. Normally Steve GW0GEI would be there but was doubtful due to recently starting a high pressure new job in south west Wales. In the end I was the only op but thankfully we weren't short of help setting up etc, particularly Danny GW7BZR and John GW3GUX.

We set up in the club's ancient caravan on the edge of a salt marsh at Red Wharf Bay on the north coast of Anglesey. Danny and John had the 100m? long inverted vee doublet up when I arrived in the rain after lunch, supported by a 10m Al pole in the centre and fed with 300 ohm window feeder. But the K3's auto tuner didn't like 160 or 80 so we trimmed it down to more like resonant on top band but it was still not happy on 160 even though 80 was now fine, especially after adding an extra 20 or so feet of feeder. Still not sure why the problem on 160 and wonder whether ladder line close to Al poles is a good idea.

Saturday was much better than Sunday, exacerbated by increasing tiredness after only a couple of hours 'sleep' in the wind rocked box. Danny was on hand most of the time for brews, moral support and keeping the genny topped up. In the end I was pleased enough to exceed the qso total from last year's team effort, though disappointed with the lower points due to a poor showing on top band and 10m. 10m was conditions but I suspect 160m was due to lack of attention on my part.

Band      Qs
----      ---
160        87
80        126
40        293
20        248
15         47
10         44
-------------
Total     845

Points   3067

Fun nonetheless and perversely enjoyed the solo challenge of staying awake and productive for as much as possible of the 24 hours.

Will be taking next year off from NFD to get suited and booted to give my daughter away. Mind you the wedding venue has a great open take off to the north and east over the sea......

73 and thanks for the contacts,

Stewart Rolfe, GW0ETF