Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio

Felipe Hernandez NP4Z is a powerhouse of contesting and a central player in this year’s CQ World Wide CW showdown. He joins Kevin W1DED just hours before the contest kicks off from St. Croix, where he’s not only competing himself but orchestrating one of the biggest storylines in radio sport: the “Clash of the Titans” between Dan N6MJ, Braco E77DX, and Chris KL9A. Felipe’s role? Matchmaker, facilitator, and competitive force in his own right. Licensed in 1980 and fluent in CW since age 11, Felipe has shaped his life around ham radio—relationships, career, and worldview all filtered through the key and mic. He talks with infectious pride about helping build up stations from scratch, like Jaime’s now-formidable setup in St. Croix or the revitalization efforts underway in Colombia. He’s deeply hands-on, bridging generations and borders, and energizing a new wave of competitors who might otherwise think they’re too old or too isolated to contend. This episode drops just before Felipe takes the field under KP2B, but more than that, it reveals the connective tissue holding the contesting world together. He's the reason Braco ended up at HK1T. He helped Dan land in the Canaries. And now, with three titans poised to go head-to-head across oceans, Felipe is right in the mix—quietly shaping the battle, then stepping into it himself. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Special thanks to DX Engineering and Icom for sponsoring the CQ WW CW Showdown series and for supporting contesters, DXers, and Parks on the Air activators around the globe.

Dan Craig N6MJ is on the Canary Islands, gearing up to operate EF8R in this weekend’s CQ World Wide CW contest, and we caught up just as final preparations were underway. Joined by Levi K6JO, Dan’s been troubleshooting verticals, fine-tuning antennas, and running high-stakes shakedowns ahead of a record attempt. Inside the shack: two Icom 7610s and—after some debate—a third radio, an Elecraft K3, to chase elusive multipliers during slow hours. A smooth CWT test calmed some nerves as Dan got his head back into real-time 2BSIQ. Though Braco E77DX recently rebuilt the station for SSB, Dan and Levi found plenty to fix, from storm-damaged antennas to last-minute adjustments. Propagation has shifted too—most notably, 10 meters is closing fast after EU sunset. Stress? Absolutely. Sleep is sparse, pressure is high, but Dan's determined to give the world a clean, all-out effort. Felipe NP4Z helped secure the EF8R station when Dan was nearly sidelined, and that camaraderie echoes through the contesting community. From Chris KL9A and Braco E77DX in 3-point land to Andy N2NT (V47T), Tom W2SC (8P5A), Felipe NP4Z (KP2B), Filipe CT1ILT (CR6K) and Jon KL2A (KP4AA), the competition is fierce—but grounded in mutual respect and constant collaboration. And though Dan’s not one for the spotlight, he’s showing up because keeping contesting vibrant matters. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to Icom and DX Engineering for backing operators worldwide—whether they’re pushing 2BSIQ at EF8R or chasing rare multipliers from remote corners of the globe.

Emir “Braco” Memic E77DX is in Colombia, transforming HK1T into a serious contest machine—just in time to debut his new 5J1DX callsign for CQ WW CW. With the clock ticking, Braco is taking a hands-on approach to engineering a high-performance station out of HK1T’s formidable base. It’s a full-court press: antennas fine-tuned, switching gear reworked, and amps sorted out with a blend of skill and last-minute improvisation. The topography isn’t easy, the hardware’s not all cooperating, but Braco’s turning it into something that can compete with the best. Is Braco the MacGyver of ham radio? You be the judge. Securing 5J1DX marks a major moment—not just for Braco, but for the Colombian ham community that helped make it happen. He singles out Sandra HK3YL for her behind-the-scenes effort to get the license finalized. With 2,000 QSOs already logged and promising runs on 10 and 15 meters, Braco’s laying the groundwork for a serious showing. Whether or not everything’s perfect by showtime, he’s made clear: he’s not backing down. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. This episode is part of the CQ WW CW Showdown series, made possible with support from Icom and DX Engineering—backing contesters, DXers, and operators who push the limits on every band, from every corner of the world.

Jon Kimball KL2A is the consummate contester. From learning Morse code at age seven to chasing DX from Alaska with a Yagi at 60 feet, Jon’s ham radio journey spans more than four decades. A chance encounter with Chris KL9A during those early pileups—first as rivals, then as teammates—set the tone for a lifetime of contest camaraderie. Now based in Sun Valley, Idaho, Jon brings deep contesting experience and a sharp analytical mind to this year’s CQ Worldwide CW showdown, operating from Kenny Ramirez’s polished KP4AA station in Puerto Rico. Kimball’s breakdown of the KL9A–N6MJ–E77DX face-off is must-hear commentary. Having operated from CT3, EA8, and HK himself, he offers rare perspective on propagation dynamics, multiplier strategies, and the psychological demands of pacing through fatigue and solar flares. His bet? A strong start from the Zone 33 heavyweights, but a real shot for Braco if the Asian openings from HK pay off—and if the ionosphere throws a wildcard. One detail that sticks: Jon once picked Chris KL9A up from high school and drove him to a contest station. They've been talking radios ever since. And one point Jon made clear: there are dozens of top-tier operators on the air this year. Check out NG3K.com for the full lineup—and work them. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to Icom and DX Engineering for supporting the CQ WW CW Showdown series—and for backing DXers, Parks on the Air ops, and contesters chasing the edge of propagation.

Just days before what looks like a record-breaking CQ World Wide CW, six world-class operators compare notes across Europe and South America. Braco E77DX is deep in the Colombian jungle at HK1T’s mountaintop station, where rain, mud, and snakes complicate the final push. His contest callsign is expected any day. Early tests show him hammering into Europe at 30-over-9, reinforcing what’s always been a three-way battle between HK1T, EF8R, and CQ9A in the much-watched CQ WW CW Showdown. In Estonia, Kris ES7A is refining ES9C with upgraded Flex radios, multi-Flex capabilities, and cleaner inband audio. Sven DJ4MX heads to Bosnia and Herzegovina, anchoring a strong multinational team at E7DX for a multi-single run. In Croatia, Dave 9A1UN has a crane en route to hoist antennas just in time—business as usual for a crew that thrives on the edge of readiness. Filipe CT1ILT is back in Portugal aiming to break 10,000 QSOs once more, hoping propagation tilts his way. And up in snowy Sweden, Mike SJ2W preps for another multisingle campaign, looking to top last year’s 7,000 QSO haul. All six react to CT1BOH’s pre-contest breakdown—opinions vary, but one thing’s certain: this contest is wide open. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to Icom for sponsoring Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio—because legendary QSOs deserve legendary radios.

Levi Jefferies K6JO is in the thick of the CQ WW CW showdown, he's in the Canary Islands to support Dan N6MJ’s shot at a new record. But he's arriving with serious momentum—fresh off an electrifying, unofficial first-place finish in the ARRL Sweepstakes SSB. That win, logged from Chris KL9A’s off-grid Montana station KM7W, wasn’t just about rate or firepower. It was about brains, bold decisions, and a disciplined contest strategy. You’re going to be hearing a lot more about K6JO. Still in his twenties, Levi is quickly proving himself a generational contester. In this conversation, he walks through his wire-to-wire battle with George K5TR—seven-time champion, ideally located, and almost never outpaced. Levi’s edge? A high-risk move: diving into 10 meters early to work low-numbered Technician-class QSOs others save for Sunday. That gamble, combined with smart off-time management and aggressive two-radio operation, let him surge ahead in the final hours. The setup at KM7W was formidable but far from plug-and-play. The station runs entirely on generator power, and Levi and Chris hustled to get antennas online—including a freshly reinforced 80m four-square and a spiderbeam pointed at W6. They also pushed the envelope with the KD6X Rig Select Pro, giving Levi what may be the first full 2BSIQ phone run using the device. With the gear locked in and the bands favoring Montana—just barely—Levi outmaneuvered the field and made a statement. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to DX Engineering for backing this episode. Their support helps power high-performance stations like KM7W and fuels operators worldwide as they push the boundaries of what’s possible.

The Contest Crew—Randy K5ZD, Chris KL9A, Bill W9KKN, and Dan N6MJ—return to Q5 with a complete debrief of ARRL Sweepstakes SSB and a forward look at CQ World Wide CW, where three of the sport’s top competitors (N6MJ, KL9A, and E77DX) are set for a record-chasing clash from the Canary Islands, Madeira, and Colombia. Sweepstakes had no shortage of tension. Levi, working solo from Chris’s KM7W station, went head-to-head with George K5TR—and won. Running modest gear in a remote setup, he stuck to his game plan, stayed cool, and pulled off the upset. Dan and Randy weigh in on what makes Sweepstakes a unique proving ground: coaching newcomers, navigating unpredictable conditions, and hearing first-time HF operators—some as young as 13—break through. Now, the focus shifts to CQ WW CW. Chris is operating from CQ9A, Dan from EF8R, and Braco E77DX from HK1T in Colombia. With 12,000 QSOs within reach and accuracy under the microscope, the smallest choices—band timing, low-band multipliers, operator endurance—could decide everything. Both Chris and Dan are running 2BSIQ, avoiding the scoreboard, and aiming for an all-out 48-hour sprint. Also on deck: Randy’s first serious run from his new W8 station, Bill’s ZF1A team chasing a Multi-Two North America record, and a sharp insight from Chris—what ham radio needs most isn’t more youth programs, it’s more and better supporting hams. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Grateful to DX Engineering for making this episode possible—and for equipping contesters, DXers, and Parks on the Air ops with the gear they rely on when performance counts.

Chelsea Parraga KF0FVJ and John Burwell KI5QKX are calling on the amateur radio community to step up. Representing Amateur Radio Digital Communications (ARDC), they’re actively recruiting new volunteers to help drive the next wave of innovation, education, and technical stewardship in ham radio. Whether you're a seasoned operator, an open-source developer, an educator, or simply someone eager to give back—this is your chance to shape the future. ARDC is a private foundation funding $3–4 million in grants each year—supporting everything from school station buildouts to open-source software development. But money is just part of the picture. The engine behind ARDC’s success is its dedicated volunteers. Chelsea and John describe a wide range of roles now open: from grant reviewers to results evaluators to science communicators. There's also critical work to be done within the 44Net IP address space—protecting resources, advising on technical development, and building community. If you’ve ever wanted to make a difference in ham radio, now’s the time. Apply at www.ardc.net. The commitment varies—from an hour a week to five—so there’s room for all kinds of contributors. The term? One year, with options to stay longer if you’re making an impact. The need is real. The door is open. Get involved. Application Deadline is October 31st so act quickly! Go to this link: https://www.ardc.net/join-ardcs-2026-volunteer-team/ oin the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. This episode comes your way with support from Icom—pioneering amateur radio innovation for more than 50 years.

Chris Tate N6WM is a late-blooming force in amateur radio who discovered the hobby in his forties—and never looked back. A lifelong technologist and adventurer, Chris quickly made his mark in both contesting and DXpeditioning. He's the founder of the K6LRG hilltop contest station and station coordinator for the powerhouse N6RO Superstation, where he helps drive multi-multi operations in the West. With marquee wins in Sweepstakes, RTTY Roundup, and NAQP, Chris has built a strong reputation as a skilled and dedicated West Coast operator. What sets Chris apart is not just his skill behind the mic, but his commitment to building teams and nurturing talent. From co-founding K6LRG with a rotating cast of contributors to leading high-octane ops at N6RO, Chris has turned his love of camaraderie into a competitive edge. He’s also joined the TX5S Clipperton and VP6D Ducie Island expeditions with the Perseverance DX Group—bringing his contesting skills to demanding field environments and helping log thousands of contacts under pressure. One standout detail: his K6LRG shack is fully remote—four miles and one steep hill away—powered by FlexRadio and fine-tuned for elite performance. Chris is also a longtime leader with the Northern California Contest Club, where he’s served as President and Contest Chair, helping steer the club through changing times while keeping the scoreboard competitive. A passionate evangelist for remote ops and online scoreboards, Chris sees technology not as a threat to contesting—but as its future. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to DX Engineering for supporting operators like Chris and powering everything from Parks on the Air to top-tier contesting efforts worldwide. Your dedication keeps stations competitive and dreams on the air.

John Dorr K1AR and George Gross N3GJ are fresh off a record-setting run at K3LR during the CQ Worldwide SSB contest, logging 406 QSOs in a single hour on 10 meters. This wasn’t luck or brute force—it was a masterclass in synchronized contesting, 21 years in the making. From a clean frequency above 28.500 MHz, the duo operated in seamless coordination: John on the run station, George working multipliers, backed by K3LR’s unassuming but game-changing four-square receive antenna. Their shorthand—“let’s do our thing”—captures a kind of operating telepathy. At 11:58 Zulu, with Europe showing up and conditions ripe, they flipped the switch. What followed was a two-hour pileup that never let up. In the first hour, John ran 272 stations; George pulled in 134 more. It’s not just the numbers—it’s that from a U.S. station, with two ops operating this tightly, this is rare air. There was a quick high-five at the top of the hour, then back to work. And as K1AR quipped, they “actually kind of like each other,” which might just be their secret weapon. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to DX Engineering for supporting the operators who make moments like this possible—whether they’re DXing from the edge of the noise floor or pushing the limits from contest superstations. Your commitment keeps the spirit of radio alive and loud.

Braco E77DX, Filipe CT1ILT, Sven DJ4MX, Chris ES7A, Mike SJ2W, and Dave 9A1UN - Contest Crew Europe - return from the CQ Worldwide SSB contest with stories that stretch from the Canary Islands to the Arctic edge of Europe. This isn’t just a recap—it’s contesting at its most competitive, collaborative, and chaotic. Braco E77DX may have rewritten the record books at EF8R, logging 11,000 QSOs and 27 million points over 48 relentless hours. At ES9C, Chris ES7A battled blown amplifiers, runaway rotators, and led a multi-multi team split between grizzled veterans and first-timers. Mike SJ2W surged into Europe’s top tier thanks to rare polar path openings that let him run the high bands long after others faded—landing him third worldwide and likely first in Europe. Filipe CT1ILT, the engineering mind behind CR6K, built a switching system from scratch—custom boards, full in-band transmit, touchscreen control—only to face a router failure minutes before go time. The system held. The vision proved out. Sven DJ4MX quietly pushed low-power limits from home. Dave 9A1UN slugged it out in the Single Band trenches. And tying it all together: the online scoreboard, now the heartbeat of high-level contesting. #onlinescoreboard is more than a hashtag—it’s the new mantra. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. This episode of Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio is powered by Icom—innovative radios trusted by amateur operators worldwide.

Jose CT1BOH is back on Q5 Worldwide—and just in time for a historic showdown. The ten-time CQ World Wide CW winner, one of the most respected voices in high-stakes contesting, returns for a masterclass in operator performance, propagation edge, and psychological warfare. This isn’t just another contest preview—it’s a forensic breakdown of who might claim the crown in the most prestigious CW event of the year. With Dan N6MJ and Chris KL9A setting up in Zone 33 (the Canaries and Madeira), and Braco E77DX operating from Colombia, Jose walks us through what really matters: the 2BSIQ technique that now defines elite-level wins, the path geometry that privileges east-west propagation, and the subtle but decisive advantages of geography, sunrise timing, and antenna takeoff angles. He’s measured, candid—and brutally honest. Jose calls it the “Clash of Titans” and picks a favorite, though barely. One operator holds the edge in history, QSO rates, and location; another is the more consistent performer, sharper under pressure, and sitting at a better-engineered station. Both are entering unfamiliar territory, not just geographically, but mentally. A third would need a surprise shift in propagation—but as Jose reminds us, anything can happen. He’s been in their shoes: he’s failed, broken records, and learned to stay calm when the log falls apart. That experience, translated here, becomes a roadmap for anyone who wants to understand what separates world-class from world-best. Thanks to Icom and DX Engineering for their ongoing support of Q5 and the CQ WW Showdown. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio.

CQ World Wide SSB strategy & station plans with the Contest Crew—Dan N6MJ, Chris KL9A, Bill W9KKN, and Randy K5ZD—who break down final preparations for the SSB Super Bowl of radiosport. Operating from the elite CQ9A station in Madeira, Chris, Dan, and Bill are diving into a high-intensity, six-radio, 24/7 multi-single effort hosted by EW6W Valery Zhytkovich, joining forces with top-tier European ops. The fusion of American and European contesting styles could unlock new records—or at least hard-won lessons for the U.S. contingent. From antenna-based distributed listening techniques to the rare luxury of arriving at a fully built site (thanks to Valery and his tireless team), this episode is rich with strategy and logistics. Chris and Dan break down in-band run timing, audio sharing, and the fight for every last QSO when margins against stations like P33W can come down to 1%. Bill, for once, just gets to show up and plug in—an unfamiliar but welcome shift from his usual role as technical architect. Randy adds perspective from his spartan setup as V47T in St. Kitts, where batteries, spare parts, and repair supplies get packed alongside hope for clear skies and clear bands. He’s joined by N2NT and K4ZW for what he calls a “poor man’s multi-single,” operating with two radios and three ops from a station that may—or may not—still be intact when they arrive. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to DX Engineering for equipping operators around the globe—from island expeditions to full-stack contest superstations—with the gear they need to chase DX, win contests, and keep Parks on the Air alive and thriving.

A few days ago, we heard from Contest Crew North America. Now it’s Europe’s turn. Braco E77DX, Dave 9A1UN, Mike SJ2W, Kris ES7A, and Sven DJ4MX—collectively Contest Crew Europe, and five of the continent’s most respected operators—join Q5 with their war stories and final prep before CQ Worldwide SSB. Dave recaps the standout Istra Conference, a magnet for serious ops and next-gen tech, with attendees flying in from across Europe and the U.S. Braco walks through the high-stakes logistics of EF8R in the Canaries: six 32-kilo bags, customs delays, and a tribander stuck somewhere between Madrid and mystery. Kris reports from Estonia, where a 20-person crew is rebuilding ES5TV’s site—moose damage, marshland, and all—in pursuit of his 2013 multi-multi record. Mike, up at SJ2W in Sweden, is fighting similar terrain and hoping for a clean polar path. And Sven? He’s caught between thesis deadlines and competing offers from Estonia to SM2. There’s no ego here—just precision, resilience, and a drive to pass the torch. Each station runs its own rhythm, each team its own doctrine, but the goal is the same: extract every QSO the bands will give. Brought to you by Icom—the choice of operators who know that peak performance is never optional.

Rich Smith N6KT is a quiet titan in the world of radiosport. With ten CQ WW SSB wins to his name, an ARRL DX Phone record that has stood since 1993, and multiple WPX titles, Rich heads into this weekend’s contest from PJ4K with a legitimate shot at another world title. He’s not just a competitor—he’s a legacy builder. His rivals know it. Braco E77DX is mounting a massive effort from the Canaries (EF8R) with hopes of a win and a possible world record, but the Contest Crew's KL9A says Rich is his top competition. Rich’s path started in a suburban California shack, where he built his first transmitter into a Band-Aid box. He climbed the ladder from modest sweepstakes ops to twenty years of contesting from the Galapagos, where he and a tight-knit crew engineered a rugged contesting fortress that weathered tropical winds and political headwinds. Today, Rich is part of the PJ4K rebuild team, operating from a Bonaire site once decimated by ocean surge. His strategy is clinical—hour-by-hour band planning, post-contest self-audits, and relentless focus on efficiency. No overall score goals. No scoreboard distractions. Just aiming for a performance he can be proud of. This weekend, Rich squares off against Braco in the Canaries and Tom 8P5A—both elite 2BSIQ operators. The stakes are high. But Rich isn’t here for the stress or the showmanship. “If I’m proud of how I operated, that’s good for me,” he says. That calm perseverance—and his unshakable belief in radio’s magic—has made him a beacon to every contester wondering what’s possible with discipline, humility, and grit. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to Icom for sponsoring Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio—because legendary QSOs deserve legendary radios. Their commitment to the amateur community helps make these stories—and operations like PJ4K—possible.

Dan Craig N6MJ is one of three world-class operators aiming to shatter world records in the CQ Worldwide CW contest this November. From Magic Mountain in the Canary Islands, Dan will operate as EF8R—joining a global showdown where perfect propagation, cutting-edge engineering, and elite operator skill might converge to make history. He’s teaming up with Braco E77DX, who will run SSB from the same site, in a rare and strategic collaboration between two of the radiosport’s fiercest competitors. Dan is going all-in on a three-radio setup, running Icom 7610s and supported by trusted tech allies Bill W9KKN and Levi K6JO. Levi, now a professional antenna hand, will be on-site to handle potential tower repairs and power challenges on the wind-battered summit. Meanwhile, Braco is already retooling the shack to serve both SSB and CW, with an eye toward leaving behind a fully functional station for local ops like Juan EA8RM. This is another installment in Q5’s new CQ WW CW Showdown series—a behind-the-scenes look at how the top contenders prepare for the biggest weekend in contesting. Whether Dan, Braco, or Chris KL9A at CQ9A comes out on top, one thing is clear: conditions are ripe for a new world record—maybe even three. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to Icom and DX Engineering for making this series possible. Their continued support drives innovation among DXers, Parks on the Air activators, and top-tier contesters operating from the world’s most rugged and remote sites.

Braco Memic E77DX hosts this special edition of Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio, stepping in after Kevin W1DED encountered technical issues. Contest Crew Europe gathers to unpack the 2025 Worked All Europe SSB contest, recent IARU VHF, and plans for the upcoming CQ Worldwide SSB contest. Kris Kass ES7A opens with a cautionary tale: a lightning strike took out his station, frying everything from rotators to computers. With WAE off the table and the station out of commission for CQ Worldwide SSB, he's pivoted to a multi-op plan at ES5TV with an international team—including youth. Sven Lovric DJ4MX describes wrestling with remote station glitches while operating as 9A5MX, but still posting over 400,000 points. Dave Kucelin 9A1UN joins late but brings the heat: his team operated from an ex-military mountaintop site at 1,600 meters, battling fog, humidity, and 80 km/h winds. The result? Over 1,100 QSOs and the second-best VHF score south of the Alps. The crew closes with insights on WAE propagation, the flood of QTCs from Brazilian stations, and yes—AI-generated voices now flawlessly handing out QTCs. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. This episode of Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio is powered by Icom—innovative radios trusted by amateur operators across the globe.

George Gross N3GJ is the 10-meter backbone of K3LR, Tim Duffy’s legendary multi-multi contest station. For 30 years and 100 contest weekends, George has held the line through solar highs and brutal lows. Whether pulling callers out of static or setting the SSB hourly rate record (390 QSOs) alongside K1AR, George shows up. Every single time. His start was classic: a Hallicrafters receiver in the attic, Morse code copied by hand, and a dad who passed down the love of radio from his Vietnam-era roots. By high school, George was sending code at 30 WPM, making the trek to Buffalo to upgrade his license, and splitting firewood in exchange for a tribander on the roof. DXing came first—but it was a code-copying contest at a 1995 Ohio hamfest that put him on Tim Duffy’s radar and launched a decades-long run at K3LR. There’s a humility in George’s story—he calls himself “not a top-tier contester”—but that’s only half true. In the multi-multi world, he’s the ops dream: calm, consistent, patient enough to sit through dead bands, and sharp enough to squeeze every last QSO out of them. He’s also a reminder that you don’t need to be flashy to make an impact. You just need to show up and do the work. And maybe, on a good day, set a world record with your best radio friends. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Special thanks to DX Engineering for supporting operators like George—from patient CW diggers to record-breaking contesters—and for giving hams around the world the tools to compete, connect, and chase the magic hour.

As the sun came up this morning over Chebeague Island in Maine, my phone lit up with a WhatsApp call from Braco Memic E77DX. It was 6 a.m.—and within the hour, I was walking with him, virtually and on camera, through the legendary EF8R “Magic Mountain” contest station on Gran Canaria. He and his wife Julia had just landed, and Braco was already sizing up the challenge ahead: broken antennas, a silent generator, and only days to turn chaos into a world-class signal. The plan is bold. Braco will go first, chasing a world record in CQ WW SSB. Then Daniel Craig N6MJ arrives to take his own swing during CQ WW CW. Two world-class operators, one station, and a narrow window to pull it all together. This is the kind of behind-the-scenes story that rarely gets told—the sweat and scramble before the glory. I’m calling it the CQ WW Showdown, and this is only the beginning. Huge thanks to Icom America Inc. and DX Engineering for backing this coverage. Their support makes it possible to bring you inside the action and show what it really takes to compete at the highest level of contesting. Subscribe to Q5 so you don’t miss the upcoming coverage. Visit www.q5hamradio.com for links to other platforms. And thanks for supporting Q5—don’t forget, SQ1K has Q5 gear available for purchase.

I'm back with the Contest Crew—Dan N6MJ, Bill W9KKN, Chris KL9A—and special guest Levi Jeffries K6JO, who takes us deep into the guts of serious HF contesting, from antenna stacks in Tennessee to the fine-tuned dance of 2BSIQ phone operation. Levi recounts his recent effort in the Worked All Europe SSB contest, operating remotely from Ron WV4P’s elite Tennessee hilltop contest station. The competition was tighter than expected, with Jim WX3B chasing him down in a dramatic scoreboard race and wielding a clear Northeast propagation advantage. Levi’s strategic grit was on full display—from wrestling with poor 20-meter conditions to catching rare multipliers on fickle 10 meters. Yet, what shone brightest was his sharp technical dissection, including a live test of the Teensy Maestro, a compact switching solution for Flex radios. In a candid reflection, Levi admits he may have misplayed his QTC timing—but not before giving a masterclass on 2BSIQ philosophy. This wasn’t just radio acumen; it was contest strategy with human nuance. And in the broader context of AI-assisted ops, Levi offered a compelling counterpoint: in low-rate, high-skill contests, it’s not just about copying calls—it’s about coaxing the unheard to speak. This episode sets the stage for a high-voltage CQWW season. As Chris KL9A and Dan N6MJ gear up for world record attempts—from CQ9A or EA8—the quiet rivalry and escalating arms race in gear, grit, and strategy hint at a historic fall. Add Braco E77DX to the mix, and Chris predicts not just one world record falling, but possibly three. It's a showdown to anticipate—and to watch unfold right here on Q5. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Special thanks to DX Engineering for championing the global contesting community. From WV4P’s hilltop mega-station to the casual contester, your support continues to power the passion behind the mic.

Kylee Shirbroun KE0WPA is 18 years old and a bright young voice in ham radio. Raised in the shadow of a 40-foot tower in Worthington, Minnesota, she made her first satellite contact while on vacation in Canada—the very day her technician license came through. Since then, she’s earned her general class ticket, become a contesting enthusiast, and taken on youth advisor roles with the Minnesota Wireless Association and the North Star Radio Convention. A familiar call sign on the Parks on the Air circuit, Kylee activates and hunts alongside her father, ND0C, running portable gear from their truck. She’s also active on Remote Ham Radio’s youth program, favoring a Croatian station for its direct path into Europe and Asia. But her biggest leap is still ahead: a 2026 trip to St. Lucia, where she’ll join the J62K team for CQ WPX—a serious contesting milestone for any operator, let alone a teenager. Her story echoes that of past guest Seth NU1D, who will also join the J62K crew. But what sets Kylee apart is more than her technical chops—it’s her drive to open the hobby to others. She’s not just preparing for ham radio’s future. She is its future. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Special thanks to Icom. From the shack to the summit, Icom keeps hams connected. We're proud to have their support for Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio.

Violetta Latham KN2P is a 20-year-old Extra Class ham with more big station experience under her belt than many operators twice her age. A commercial pilot, flight instructor, and aircraft mechanic apprentice, Violetta's days oscillate between runways and radios. Licensed since she was nine—thanks to a sibling competition organized by her father—she’s grown from a childhood in a Mennonite-Amish household with no internet to flying jets and working pileups from the Caribbean. She’s operated from top-tier contesting stations like PJ2T, W3LPL, and K3LR as part of Team Exuberance, where she built deep ties with other rising stars like Marty NN1C and Levi K6JO. Her DXpedition résumé is growing fast: recent ops from St. Lucia (J62K), upcoming activation of the North Cook Islands (E51MWA), and a fully youth-led contest effort from PJ2T this October. Contesting is her passion—especially phone on 10 meters, where she thrives in fast-paced pileups and unexpected openings, like the middle-of-the-night path to Australia from St. Lucia. Whether she's navigating DXpedition logistics or logging overnight contest shifts in unfamiliar time zones, Violetta is making a name for herself in the next generation of operators. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. A special thanks to DX Engineering for supporting operators who chase hard-to-reach grids, light up the bands for Parks on the Air, and mentor the next generation of hams.

John Dorr K1AR is… one of the most quietly influential voices in radiosport. A WRTC medalist, long-time CQ Worldwide committee leader, CQ Magazine editorial alumnus, and the unmistakable voice of the Dayton Contest Dinner, John has spent more than five decades shaping competitive ham radio—on the air and off. In this interview with Kevin Thomas W1DED, he traces his path from starstruck novice to CW powerhouse to director of the biggest contest on Earth. His ham radio origin story—hearing a loud CX station from Uruguay on Field Day 1969—has all the charm and intensity of the era. By the 1970s, he was chasing DX, placing second in the Novice Roundup, and becoming part of a new generation of contesters who would go on to define the sport. Contesting friendships forged in those early years still anchor him today, including his brother-in-law, K1DG. John’s first serious single-op effort—on a dare, with 10 minutes' notice—resulted in a U.S. win in CQWW, and kicked off years of intense high-level operations. He’s a realist about stations too. After years operating from legendary setups like K1EA’s and K3LR’s, he now runs 1500 watts into six wires from a “magical” valley in New Hampshire. No towers. No rotators. Still 4,000 Qs in CQWW CW. His message? “If you think you're loud, you're loud.” Whether you're grinding for a world plaque or chasing your own best score, John insists you’re winning—as long as you send in the log. From mentoring at CTU to his backstage leadership at WRTC and WWROF, John’s not just operating; he’s stewarding the culture. His answer to the youth question is candid: don't dumb it down, but meet them where they are. “If I want to relate to someone who’s 15, I have to do it by the ways they think.” This episode comes your way with support from Icom—pioneering amateur radio innovation for more than 50 years. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio.

In this episode, Q5 hosts the Contest Crew—Chris Hurlbut KL9A, Dan Craig N6MJ, Randy Thompson K5ZD, and Bill Fehring W9KKN—four of the most methodical and high-performing minds in amateur radio contesting. In this insider roundtable, we pull back the curtain on what it actually takes to prepare for a major contest like CQ World Wide. From physical readiness to log analysis, from code training to grocery lists, this is a masterclass in how the best think, prep, and execute. Randy, the elder statesman of the group, delivers a simple but brutal truth: sleep is your secret weapon. He outlines a strategy built around rest ("you can't store sleep") and a months-long checklist of station readiness. Dan and Chris—longtime contest partners and friendly rivals—walk through their CW training regimens using RUFZ and MorseRunner. Chris, a self-confessed sleep-deprived perfectionist, shares his obsessive prep list, covering everything from antenna repairs to sandwich logistics. Bill brings a grounded, data-driven perspective for the rising contester—highlighting call sign typing drills, fitness routines, and phonetic games to sharpen mental agility. All four underscore the importance of goal-setting and log analysis—not just for winning, but for learning. There’s practical wisdom here for everyone, from CQ WW hopefuls to weekend S&P warriors. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to DX Engineering for their continued support of Q5 Worldwide and their commitment to empowering DXpeditioners, Parks on the Air activators, and contesters across the globe.

Fred Lass K2TR is a legend by reputation and by record—once dubbed “King Fred” during the founding days of YCCC, a title he wears with his usual self-effacing humor. From a modest childhood in Niagara Falls to a career in broadcast engineering, Fred built a life around RF. A licensed ham since the 1960s, he’s revered for his antenna mastery with technical talks that still pack rooms at Dayton Hamvention and Northeast HamX. He’s an original Murphy’s Marauder and a founding voice of what became the powerhouse Yankee Clipper Contest Club. Fred's technical chops aren’t just theoretical. As chief engineer at a broadcast station in the 1970s, he saved his employer hundreds of thousands of dollars by designing a circularly polarized antenna upgrade that required no new tower—a feat of RF and mechanical design rooted in skills honed through ham radio and a degree from RPI. Today, he’s still pushing boundaries, planning an ambitious VU4 Andaman Islands DXpedition with antenna arrays designed for the unique circumstances of that location—challenging propagation paths, remote logistics, and in-band station isolation. And, you'll find him contesting with the multi-multi titan, K3LR. Thanks to Icom for sponsoring Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio—because legendary QSOs deserve legendary radios. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio.

Ranko Boca 4O3A is a force in global contesting and amateur radio innovation. From his breathtaking hilltop QTH in Montenegro—accessible only by rugged vehicles or his personal helicopter—Ranko has redefined what it means to build a world-class station. A telecom engineer by training and a contester since the 1970s, his early days were shaped by club stations and soldering irons. Today, he leads SkySat and the 4O3A product line, home to cutting-edge hardware like the Power Genius XL and Station Genius—gear that’s reshaped high-performance amateur radio. After a stint in broadcast engineering and a war-disrupted career that took him to Hungary, Ranko returned to Montenegro with a singular vision: build not just a top-tier contest station, but a company that delivers "broadcast-grade" equipment to hams worldwide. His station, nearly destroyed by wildfire in 2017, is now being rebuilt—bigger, tougher, and smarter than before. He calls it “living in a big radio club,” and he means it literally: 4O3A’s R&D is as much about passion as it is about profit. In contesting, Ranko doesn’t shy from strong opinions. He’s called for bold changes in the CQ World Wide rules: shorter operating times for health and fairness, equal QSO points to level the geographical playing field, and a new "Single-Op Two Band" category to democratize high-level competition. And while he refuses to name a definitive “third best” contester in the world, his praise for legends like N5TJ and K1TO—and for regional masters like YT6W and YT7AW—shows he’s thinking globally, but never forgets home. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Special thanks to DX Engineering, whose support of ambitious operators—from Parks on the Air to top-level contesters—keeps this hobby pushing the limits, from the mountaintops of Montenegro to basement shacks worldwide.

HamSCI just completed its first-ever multi-day field exercise at the world-class K3LR contest station in West Middlesex, PA. For four days, students, professors, researchers, and volunteers came together to install components of the Personal Space Weather Station (PSWS), explore the physics behind HF communication, and experience the hospitality of station owner Tim Duffy K3LR. In this interview with HamSCI founder Dr. Nathaniel Frissell, we go inside the project: from pounding ground rods and deploying a DX Engineering active receive antenna, to configuring the RX888 wideband SDR and seeing the first live data roll in. You’ll also hear about the camaraderie, the antenna farm tour, and even the first-ever QSOs made by new hams at K3LR. This is more than a technical milestone—it’s a glimpse at how amateur radio connects science, education, and community. A special thanks to DX Engineering for their support of HamSCI and this project. DX Engineering—trusted by contesters, DXers, and portable operators worldwide.

In this episode of Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio, Kevin Thomas W1DED travels (virtually) to Malawi to hear the remarkable story of Don Jones 7Q6M (K6ZO). From his base at the Embangweni Mission Hospital, Don has spent years operating on HF, mentoring young operators, and helping grow a national amateur radio community in Malawi. We talk about the challenges of building a station where parts and power are scarce, how the Malawi Project became a pipeline for new operators, and how the Jeffrey Dahn Memorial Foundation now carries forward the mission of training African youth in electronics and radio. Along the way, you’ll hear how partnerships with groups like W3HAC and Yasme Foundation, plus support from the broader amateur radio community, have made a lasting impact. Amateur radio isn’t just about contacts—it’s about transforming lives. Don’s story shows how a signal from rural Africa can inspire the next generation of operators worldwide. Sponsored by DX Engineering. From contest superstations to mission-hospital setups in Malawi, DX Engineering provides the gear that keeps amateur radio operators on the air. Trusted by DXers, contesters, and portable operators around the globe. https://www.dxengineering.com

I'm joined by Chris Hurlbut KL9A, Dan Craig N6MJ, Randy Thompson K5ZD, and Bill Fehring W9KKN for another episode of our popular Q5 Contest Crew series—your backstage pass to the minds and methods of ham radio’s top contesters. Randy is deep into a full station rebuild in Ohio, cranes and all, with a shiny new PGXL amp and a garage full of cables he’s still trying to decode. Dan, meanwhile, operated WAE remotely from N2QV, reveling in a seamless K3-to-K3 setup—but bailing to the spa when solar flares ruined the bands. Chris is juggling Montana wildfire prep and fall contest training, while Bill is mid-move from California to Illinois, paring down old projects and dropping 30 pounds ahead of CQP. The main event: SO2R and 2BSIQ. From legacy Microham boxes to rare YCCC kits and elegant DIY rigs from K6AM, the crew breaks down what works, what doesn’t, and why audio switching is more about what’s between your ears than your radios. For newer ops, it’s a masterclass; for veterans, it’s a reminder that even the pros keep refining. They close with fall CQ Worldwide plans—ZF1A, CQ9A, V47T—and WRTC pairings for England, including the headline: Dan and Chris are teaming up again. Let the trash talk commence. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Big thanks to DX Engineering for backing contesters, DXers, and portable ops with the tools and tech to stay loud and competitive across the globe.

Pat Barkey N9RV is a Contest Hall of Famer whose radio journey began with a childhood plan to stay connected to his best friend over a summer apart. What started as a search for CB radios led him instead to a neighbor’s ham shack — and into a lifelong obsession with CW, contesting, and station building. First licensed in 1967, Barkey quickly found himself handling traffic in Michigan and later immersed in the competitive scene at the University of Michigan, surrounded by future contesting greats like K8QKY and N4KG. Now operating from Montana, Barkey is a consummate station builder and CW competitor with four custom-built multi-tower stations to his name. He's one of the rare contesters more likely to be found with a wrench in hand than chasing someone else’s dream station. His career is defined not just by operating skill — though he's racked up plenty of Top Ten finishes and WRTC appearances — but by a deep, practical understanding of the hardware and human connections that power contesting. In May 2025, Barkey was inducted into the CQ Contest Hall of Fame — a recognition not just of his wins, but of his ethos: contesting as a vehicle for friendship, storytelling, and technical curiosity. From his early days in Michigan to his joke-filled rivalry with KL9A in Montana, Barkey embodies the spirit of radiosport — competitive, collaborative, and never quite finished building. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. This episode of Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio is powered by Icom—innovative radios trusted by amateur operators across the globe.

Stuart Crawford VE9CF is… a Canadian ham with a military past, a marketer’s mind, and a newfound mission to tell stories through amateur radio. First licensed in the ‘90s as VE4SRC, Stuart’s callsign changed with each military posting—from Manitoba to Alberta to New Brunswick. But the hobby took a 30-year backseat as career and family took the wheel—until recently, when he returned to radio with fresh focus and a two-letter callsign that nods to his time in the Canadian Forces. What began as simple Parks on the Air activations quickly evolved into something deeper. Stuart realized that many historic locations—churches, forts, battlegrounds—were missing from existing portable ops programs. So he built his own. Historic Sites on the Air (hsota.org) is now a growing initiative that invites hams to activate places that matter—not just for their scenery, but their stories. His gear is classic field-ready: FT-891s, lithium batteries, and antennas chosen for the setting—from a Buddipole to a truck-mounted ATAS. But the real hook isn’t the equipment—it’s the ethos. Whether he’s operating near an 1850s church or a remote Acadian fort, Stuart’s goal is the same: protect the site, share the history, and get a few good contacts while you’re at it. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Many thanks to DX Engineering for backing operators who bring ham radio into new places—whether that’s a battlefield in New Brunswick or a lighthouse off Halifax. Their support helps make activations like Stuart’s possible.

Neil Rapp WB9VPG is amateur radio’s original prodigy—and one of its most effective modern mentors. At age five, Neil became the youngest person ever to earn an FCC ham license, a novelty that landed him in the National Enquirer and on the cover of international ham radio magazines. But celebrity wasn’t the point. The point was code, conversation, and community. And Neil has spent a lifetime making sure the next generation of hams can find all three. As a high school chemistry teacher, Neil infused radio into the curriculum, making the electromagnetic spectrum tangible—and contagious. He also built a thriving afterschool program where kids spun the dial, called CQ, and taught each other. That peer-to-peer ethos now defines Youth on the Air (YOTA) in the Americas, where Neil serves as camp director. Instead of lectures, campers lead. Instead of stars, YOTA cultivates satellites—young operators who can teach, inspire, and run the show. This episode covers the origins of YOTA in North America, how camps rotate between countries like Canada, the U.S., and potentially Argentina, and what it costs (spoiler: $100). We also meet the backbone of the organization: former campers now running ops, building websites, managing QSL cards, and even directing the camp’s future. “I'm working hard to put myself out of a job,” Neil says. He means it. And it shows. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to DX Engineering for supporting operators young and old, and for fueling the spirit of ham radio through contesting, Parks on the Air, and so much more.

Doug Grant K1DG is a seasoned contester whose career spans six WRTCs, operations from over 30 countries, and a long-standing USA record in the CQ 160 contest. From his early days in suburban Boston, Doug’s path wound through legendary multi-op stations like W2PV and milestone efforts such as co-founding WWROF and organizing WRTC 2014. His reputation in the contesting community rests not just on scores, but on consistency, mentorship, and a deep commitment to the craft. Doug’s start came through a Boys' Life crystal radio project in 1965. A spark of curiosity became a full-fledged passion, nudged along by supportive parents and early mentors like K1RX. His operating resume includes record-setting runs from HI8, PJ4, and VP2E, and he’s known for navigating unfamiliar DX stations with calm adaptability. Whether climbing towers or knocking on doors in Guadeloupe with coax in hand, Doug leans into radio with a mix of humility and resolve. A formative moment came during an early contest, when the top operator in Doug’s local radio club turned to him mid-run and said, “Relax. This is supposed to be fun.” That ethos—balanced by a relentless curiosity—still defines Doug’s approach. Though no longer chasing single-op records, he remains active, engaged, and reflective about contesting’s future. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to DX Engineering for backing Q5 and for championing contesters, DXpeditioners, and everyday operators pushing the limits of portable and fixed stations alike.

Bart Bzymek SQ1K is a Polish ham radio operator who’s stitched together two worlds—DXing and design—into a life as precise as the embroidery he’s known for. He began as a shortwave listener in the 1990s and quickly climbed through Poland’s licensing system, earning his first-class ticket by mastering CW. A dedicated contester, Bart has logged serious time on-air, including stints as a guest op with the Polish HQ team at IARU. But it’s his embroidery business—launched with a single-needle machine as a side hobby—that’s made him a go-to figure in the global ham community. Since 2014, Bart and his wife have run a custom embroidery shop focused exclusively on amateur radio. With multiple machines and a worldwide client base, they create everything from personalized polos to DXpedition gear—each piece thoughtfully designed and precisely stitched. He’s outfitted some of the most prominent expeditions, including the striking 3Y0K Bouvet logo. In this episode, Kevin W1DED and Bart SQ1K formally announce a new partnership to launch official Q5 merchandise, bringing Bart’s craftsmanship into the heart of the show. Bart’s story is a reminder that amateur radio thrives on passion—and sometimes, a really good hoodie. Join the conversation, subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio, and order your Q5 apparel today. Thanks to DX Engineering for backing hams around the globe—from park activators to DX chasers—with gear that delivers when it counts.

Tim Duffy K3LR is a powerhouse in the contesting world—CEO of DX Engineering, founder of Contest University, host of the formidable K3LR station—but here, he joins us as the chairman of the World Wide Radio Operators Foundation (WWROF), the engine behind some of competitive ham radio’s best infrastructure and largest radiosport contests. If you’ve received a plaque from CQ WW, trusted your submitted log to be reviewed properly, or been impressed with fast results turnaround, WWROF, with many dedicated volunteers, made it happen. This is the story of how a handful of contesting experts turned fragmented efforts into a global support system for events like CQ WW, CQ WPX, and many others. Founded in 2009, WWROF began by filling in the gaps: managing contest logistics, streamlining communications, and ensuring continuity for legacy contests. Under Tim’s leadership—and backed by an impressive board of directors—it evolved into something more nimble and visionary. Whether it's mailing awards with record speed, funding youth programs like YOTA camps around the world, or stepping up after disasters like the hurricane in Puerto Rico, WWROF delivers—quietly, effectively, and with zero paid staff. One standout project: their backing of KC2G’s propagation tools, now essential to operators across the spectrum. Beyond contesting, Tim sees WWROF’s role expanding: finding common ground with Parks on the Air activities, integrating digital modes like FT8, and staying agile in a rapidly changing hobby. He’s not afraid to acknowledge contest community debates—assisted vs. unassisted, real-time scoring—and welcomes them as signs of a dynamic, evolving culture. At its core, WWROF isn’t just a foundation. It’s a model of how small but experienced teams can help shape the future of amateur radio. Check out the WWROF website at WWROF.org. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to DX Engineering for their steadfast support—not just of Q5, but of youth operators, contesters, and everyday DXers across the globe. Their investment in the ham community makes conversations like this possible.

Tom Georgens W2SC, also known as 8P5A, has a wall of plaques that reflect not just his victories—but the decades of discipline, grit, and quiet precision behind them. While running a Fortune 500 company, he built a formidable contest station in Barbados, troubleshooting in the tropical heat and chasing perfection from one contest season to the next. In this wide-ranging conversation, Tom shares how he went from a borrowed rental shack to designing and operating a world-class station of his own. He speaks openly about the emotional lows—twice collapsing before the end of a major contest—and the persistence that brought him back to win CQ WW SSB outright. This isn’t just a story about radios and rate sheets. It’s about risk, resilience, and the discipline to rebuild when most would walk away. Tom also takes us inside the 8P5A station—engineered for “no knobs” operation and built for efficiency at scale. From writing custom software to wrangling antennas in the rain, he explains how contesting sharpened his leadership, kept him grounded under pressure, and still pushes him to evolve. His reflections on preparation, intuition, and the future of ham radio are as thoughtful as they are hard-won. Whether you’re chasing plaques, personal bests, or simply trying to understand what drives the best—this one’s worth your time. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to DX Engineering for supporting the operators who never stop pushing—whether they’re building from scratch, rebuilding after storms, or reimagining what a contest station can be.

After our deep dive into W3AO’s record-breaking Field Day operations, we came back with one simple question for Frank W3LPL and Rol K3RA: What radios actually get the job done—and which ones are banned—at Field Day? Their answers might surprise you.

Field Day means different things to different hams. For some, it’s a competition—a chance to test gear, strategy, and skill. When we spoke with the W3AO team about their 28-year run of record-breaking efforts, we celebrated that spirit. But Field Day can also look like this: lawn chairs in a field, lawn mowing, antenna builds, and a loose pact that everyone makes at least one QSO—if they feel like it. At KM7W in rural Montana, Chris Hurlbut KL9A and Dan Craig N6MJ—two of the most respected contesters in amateur radio—set aside the race for rate and mults. Instead, they invited family, friends, and fellow ops to simply enjoy the experience. Some flew in, others drove across the country. Together they raised antennas, told stories around the firepit, dodged rattlesnakes, and made over 3,000 contacts—without ever writing a shift schedule. Levi’s improvised satellite station—with a last-minute-built handheld yagi—became the hit of the weekend. At 2:30 a.m., they tracked the International Space Station under the stars, calling out headings while trying not to wake the others. That’s Field Day, too. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio for more stories like this, where signal reports matter—but so do the people behind the mic and the ones behind the op. Thanks to DX Engineering, whose support helps fuel every version of Field Day—from the multi-multi juggernauts to backyard ops with just enough coax and a cooler of cold drinks.

Gregg Marco W6IZT has participated in some of ham radio’s most well-known DXpeditions—and a few dozen vacation-style ones too. From his ridge-top shack in rural Georgia, he’s spent the last two decades blending deep technical chops with a passion for the hobby. But his latest venture—PJ6Y from Saba Island—isn’t just another stamp in the logbook. It’s the next step in a generational handoff that began with 3D2Y Rotuma. In this episode, W6IZT joins Q5 to talk about how, at 70 years old, his approach to DXpeditioning is all about putting young operators in charge. His new model leans into mentorship and real-time problem solving. The PJ6Y team includes first-time DXpeditioners from nine countries. Thanks to partnerships with Youth on the Air and a growing off-island remote crew operating through Next Gen RIBs, they’re learning what it really takes to build, troubleshoot, and run an expedition. Gregg recounts the spark that started it all (his wife, Wendy), the stethoscope used to diagnose a seawater-soaked tuner, and themakeshift shelter roof ripped off mid-contest. These aren’t just stories—they’re signals of a deeper shift. With young hams now leading workshops, designing station schedules, and preparing for future trips with no “old man” supervision, W6IZT is quietly rewriting what it means to be seasoned. Join the conversation—and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio to follow the voices shaping the future of DXing. Special thanks to DX Engineering for supporting the innovators, mentors, and adventurers pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in amateur radio—wherever in the world they may be.

The Contest Crew is back—Randy K5ZD, Dan N6MJ, Chris KL9A, and Bill W9KKN—fresh off the IARU HF World Championship. From broken antennas and overheated shacks to surprise guest ops and last-minute tech rescues, this episode captures the contest highs, lows, and hard-won wisdom only this crew can deliver. Dan N6MJ’s operation from the legendary N2QV station in New York almost didn’t happen. After casually mentioning on a previous Q5 episode that he was “without a station,” Dan got an unexpected email from Tariq N2QV—inviting him to operate from one of the country’s top single-op sites. That led to a last-minute cross-country flight, a borrowed “foot switch” taped to the floor, and a serious attempt at the USA record. The band conditions didn’t hold up, but the effort, camaraderie, and unexpected help—from past Q5 guest Sebastian KI2D to Bill’s remote troubleshooting—tell a bigger story. Meanwhile, Chris KL9A battled 96-degree heat and bug-filled Montana nights with his trademark grin, chasing WRTC test stations and savoring every contact. Randy K5ZD, mid-rebuild in Ohio, strung up dipoles and made the most of a casual effort. And Bill W9KKN—unofficially the Contest Crew’s 24/7 tech support—spent the weekend solving problems for everyone from N2NT and NP4Z to Dan at N2QV. Whether comic or crushing, each story points to what this Crew knows best: the contest never really ends—and neither does the bond among operators. This episode is a candid debrief with four of the world’s top contesters. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to DX Engineering for backing contesters, DXers, POTA activators, and everyone pushing ham radio forward—rain or shine, band open or closed. Clarification: In the discussion about the N2QV antennas, there was a question regarding who designed and built the 4-high stack of 2X Array Tribanders. To clarify, those antennas were exclusively designed, optimized, and built by Scott, WU2X. Full credit for that impressive work goes to him.

The ISTRA Contest Conference is taking place October 9–12th in Poreč, Croatia, and Braco E77DX, Mirko 9A6KX, and Dave 9A1UN are here to tell us all about it. Born from late-night conversations and a desire for deeper community, the ISTRA Contest Conference is quickly becoming Europe’s most vital gathering of contest operators. What started as a bold idea between friends has evolved—despite COVID delays—into a globally attended, three-day immersion in radiosport. With over 250 participants and growing interest from outside the Balkans, the event now draws contesters from across Europe, the Middle East, and even the U.S. But this isn’t Friedrichshafen or Dayton. There are no booths. No gear to buy. Instead, ISTRA offers live, interactive presentations: young operators debriefing DXpeditions, station builders explaining the guts of their setups, doctors addressing health in contesting, and yes—even discussions on the etiquette (and humor) of stealing frequencies from people you now consider friends. The tone is intimate and deeply human, with late-night “last-man-standing” competitions that blend camaraderie with contest-hardened stamina. Held on the stunning Istrian coast, ISTRA isn’t just for contesters—it’s also a rare invitation for spouses and families to enjoy world-class food, swim in the Adriatic, and savor the wines and quiet beauty of inland Croatia. This episode builds on earlier Q5 conversations with top operators and expedition teams, but shifts the focus to what happens off the air—when contesters come together to share war stories, swap tactics, and reimagine the future of the sport. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio for more stories like this. Special thanks to DX Engineering for supporting contesters, DXers, Parks on the Air activators, and every ham who knows the thrill of calling CQ from somewhere new.

Our Contest Crew Europe introductions continue with Kris Kass ES7GM, also known by ES7A. Kris is a third-generation Estonian ham radio operator whose story arcs from Soviet-era restrictions to modern contesting excellence. Raised in a family where CW was practically a second language—his grandfather operated behind the Iron Curtain as UR2GT (during Soviet times, all of Estonia used the UR2 prefix)—Kris made his first CW contact at age seven using a straight key and what he remembers as a “messy” transmission. Now in his thirties, he’s one of Estonia’s most respected contesters, equally at home running pileups from his self-built rural station or contributing big scores from the megastation ES5TV. What sets Kris apart isn’t just his lineage or results, but his philosophy. At a time when many are chasing ever-bigger setups, he made a deliberate shift—constructing ES7A with simplicity and sustainability in mind. Using salvaged Soviet towers and homemade antennas, he built a flexible station atop his region’s highest local terrain—not to rival ES5TV, but to offer something community-driven and distinctly his. “It’s not about competition,” he says. “It’s about having something locals can use.” A moment that lingers: Kris casually mentions his ability to transmit and receive at the same time—a rare skill that helped him rack up 357 QSOs in the first hour of a recent IARU contest using SSB 2BSIQ. As former president (2018–2024) of the Estonian Amateur Radio Union, he championed online exams and helped build a pipeline for young operators. The results are already visible. This episode builds on a growing thread at Q5—highlighting a new generation of builders and operators like Kris Kass and Kristers Misa YL3JA, his WRTC 2026 teammate. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio to follow more stories like this. A big thanks to DX Engineering, whose support helps fuel the creativity of DXers, contesters, Parks on the Air activators, and ops everywhere—especially those who build stations from rusted towers and quiet determination.

Dave Kucelin 9A1UN, also known by his contest call 9A1P, is one of the most accomplished HF contesters in Croatia and the tenacious force behind a station that’s endured devastating storms, unresolvable land disputes, and a rotating cast of club members—all while racking up thousands of QSOs. In this episode, Dave opens up about building (and rebuilding) the 9A1P contest station, a decades-long project that started with five-element yagis on a 30-foot tower and evolved into a rugged, sea-facing setup now spanning four towers on a ridge above the Adriatic Sea. A third-generation ham, Dave first got on the air using his father’s call at age six. He cut his teeth on VHF contests, but it was CQWW that pulled him toward HF. After a freak storm in 2018 leveled the original station, Dave and his small team were forced to start over—only to be evicted from the land they’d occupied for 30 years. (Yes, there’s more to the story.) What followed was a two-year hunt for a new site, culminating in a station perched above a river valley with sea paths to North America and Japan, optimized with fixed antennas built to withstand the region’s brutal winds. The story is full of grit and unexpected laughs—like the time Dave hung a tribander between two towers with rope just to beam east for ARRL SSB, or his candid take on remote operation and the fear it might kill the camaraderie he treasures most. His daughter, now licensed and active in the YOTA scene, marks the family’s fourth generation on the air. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio—where we're working hard to illuminate the wonderful world of ham radio. Special thanks to DX Engineering for supporting the global ham radio community—from trailblazing POTA activators to teams pushing the limits in the world’s toughest DX and contesting environments. Your gear powers the pursuit.

Sven Lovric DJ4MX is part of a new wave of contesters and DXpeditioners reshaping what youth, excellence, and ambition look like in ham radio today. At just 23, he’s already logged pileups from Guyana and the remote Pacific outpost of the Marshall Islands. Whether operating as 8R7X or V73WW, Sven thrives in the thick of it—chasing signals from the other side of the globe, running high-rate phone pileups, and mastering CW through sheer commitment and countless hours on Morse Runner. Our conversation traces his journey from a 13-year-old operating under Germany’s training license program to a top finisher in CQ Worldwide CW from a 100-watt station in the heart of Munich. While his roots lie in family outings and early SOTA activations, his heart now belongs to contests and DXpeditions. He favors single-op low power for the raw challenge—but you can see the glimmer in his eyes when he talks about future high-power opportunities. His most formative experiences—like operating from E7DX with Braco or field-cooking between shifts in the Marshalls—reveal a camaraderie at the core of these far-flung efforts. Sven’s voice is both young and unusually thoughtful. He champions the live scoreboard as a tool for growth, not ego, and offers a clear call to action: don’t just study radio—operate. That advice, he notes, applies as much to midlife returners as it does to teenage prodigies. And while he isn’t ready to reveal where the “Next Generation DX Team” is heading next, one thing is certain—they’re not done. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio for more interviews with the voices shaping amateur radio’s future. Thanks to DX Engineering for supporting this work—and for helping DXers, POTA activators, and contesters everywhere build the stations of their dreams, no matter where they call CQ.

Mike Larsmark SJ2W is one of Europe’s premier contest station builders—an operator who pairs deep technical skill with long-term investment and a clear vision for finding a competitive edge from the far northern Swedish countryside. Licensed at 15, Larsmark jumped into contesting early and never looked back. He credits Contest Crew member Randy Thompson K5ZD as an early influence, whose writeups helped him understand what it meant to operate competitively. From stringing up wire antennas to building a purpose-designed, eight-tower station near 64.5° N, his journey has been one of steady, methodical refinement. SJ2W is now a serious presence in the contesting world, with European records, top-three finishes, and proof that results are possible—even at a highly propagation-dependent latitude—with the right design and team. This conversation traces the evolution of SJ2W: why automation became essential, how Larsmark built a remote-ready system around his own control software (OpenASC), and what it takes to manage hardware, operators, and neighbors across thousands of square meters. One standout moment: the 2010 IARU contest, when SJ2W’s new antennas brought in North America every hour for 24 hours straight—an early glimpse of what the site was capable of. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio. Thanks to DX Engineering for backing the builders, the activators, and the contesters—whether you're fine-tuning a multi-op setup or logging first contacts from a field station, their gear and guidance help you get the job done right.

Braco E77DX is the driving force behind the first-ever Contest Crew: Europe Edition—a project built on the momentum and format created by the original Contest Crew: Randy K5ZD, Dan N6MJ, Chris KL9A, Bill W9KKN, and Dr. Scott Wright K0MD. Together, they set the tone for what this series became: smart, unscripted, and genuinely fun. Their candid, strategy-rich conversations quickly became essential viewing for contesters and helped build a loyal global following for Q5. But one thing kept coming up: we needed more voices from outside North America. Enter Braco, who pushed to expand the conversation—and tonight, that idea becomes reality. In this premiere episode, we welcome six of Europe’s most accomplished operators: Braco E77DX, Dave 9A1UN, Mike SJ2W, Filipe CT1ILT, Kris ES7A, and Sven DJ4MX. From propagation quirks and contest scoring challenges to stories of station rebuilds and IARU prep, this is contesting from a European vantage point—uncensored and overdue. Five of the six will be competing in WRTC 2026. This isn’t a parallel project—it’s an expansion. Our intention is for the EU and NA Crews to cross over in future episodes, exchanging ideas, perspectives, and maybe even some friendly trash talk. Contesting is a global game. This crew underscores it. Join the conversation in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio for more episodes like this. Thanks to DX Engineering for backing this series—and for their steadfast support of the Parks on the Air community, as well as everything they do to equip DXers, contesters, and portable operators around the globe. Their passion powers the hobby. Visit dxengineering.com to learn more.

In this episode, the Contest Crew—Randy K5ZD, Dan N6MJ, and Bill W9KKN—turns their attention to the IARU HF World Championship, a 24-hour sprint that’s more than just a summertime curiosity. It’s a deceptively technical contest: the rules are simple, but the path to a top score is anything but. As Randy lays out the structure and quirks—zones, headquarters stations, multiplier strategy, and the peculiar propagation patterns that emerge in July—it becomes clear this is a thinking person’s DX contest. And for many, it’s the perfect tune-up for something even bigger. Dan, who’s stood atop the WRTC podium, sees IARU as essential prep for 2026, when the Olympics of radiosport take place in England. But he also points to a rare opening for West Coast operators: a shot at going toe-to-toe with their East Coast rivals, thanks to nighttime paths on 20 and 15 meters that tilt the playing field—if only briefly. Bill echoes the sentiment—this isn’t just a casual one-day sprint. It’s one of the few contests where propagation, geography, and raw skill align in unpredictable ways. Then there’s the moment Randy explains why the real magic of 10 meters might not come at sunrise but at 22Z, when Europe stays up late and the band suddenly opens like a trapdoor. Or Dan recalling how a pre-WRTC trip exposed the razor-thin beamwidth of their spiderbeam antenna—details that don’t just color a contest, but decide it. The conversation drifts into WRTC strategy, the shifting meta of CW vs. SSB, and the quiet thrill of nailing the perfect multiplier at the perfect moment. This episode builds on the candid, unscripted energy that made the Contest Crew series a cult favorite. If you’re serious about IARU—or just curious why the best contesters never stop learning—this one’s for you. Join the conversation and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio for more smart, spirited talks like this. Thanks to DX Engineering for backing DXers, contesters, Parks on the Air activators and hams everywhere who keep stretching the edges of the map.

Les Chalfant KI5GTR is the kind of operator who reminds us what Parks on the Air is all about. From zero to full-throttle in just a few years, Les has activated all 286 parks in Arkansas, is closing in on 700 unique park activations overall, and still found time to earn a serious contest plaque from his home QTH—Rookie Overlay #1 in the U.S. for the 2024 CQ Worldwide SSB Contest. Whether he’s logging 200 contacts from a forest clearing or tracking propagation through a 48-hour contest, Les blends outdoor adventure with competitive drive in a way that feels entirely fresh—and completely at home in the POTA movement. He’s not just participating. He is the story. Les embodies the best of what Parks on the Air has come to represent: accessibility, energy, community, and a love for radio that’s contagious. Join the conversation in the comments and subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio for more stories like this. Special thanks to DX Engineering for their continued support—not just of this show, but of the entire Parks on the Air community. Whether you're operating off-grid, chasing DX from a contest station, or running 100 watts from the tailgate, DX Engineering makes it all work better.

ARRL Field Day is here—and whether you’re running 100 watts on a hilltop with a friend, part of a multi-operator 6A club effort, or setting up a 1B in your backyard, it’s one of the most beloved events in ham radio. In the latest Contest Crew episode, Randy Thompson K5ZD, Daniel Craig N6MJ, Christopher Hurlbut KL9A, and Bill Fehring W9KKN share their Field Day plans and reflect on why this weekend means so much to hams of all kinds—including serious contesters. This episode is made possible by DX Engineering—your Field Day headquarters for everything from antennas to accessories. Thanks to them for supporting the ham radio community year-round. We want to hear about your Field Day too! Send photos and videos to W1DED (email on QRZ) during the event—we’ll be sharing highlights all weekend long.