Guernsey and Jersey’s young rib drivers were out in force this weekend (Saturday, 07th August) when they competed against each other in the Channel Islands regional final of the Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship to win a place in the National Final to be held at the PSP Southampton Boat Show next month.

Hosted in the waters off Guernsey Yacht Club, in overcast conditions and westerly force 3 winds, the youngsters blasted round the pre-set course against the clock in a bid to post the quickest time possible avoiding penalties for incorrect manoeuvres on their way around. 

Split into two age groups (8-12_ and 13-16), competition was rife especially as for the first time ever Jersey were taking part in the event adding huge rivalry between the Islands.

Racing to victory in the younger group was Guernsey’s Jacob Sidebottom (11), posting a time of 1:51:47 and in the older group 15 year old Charles Brien from Jersey took first place completing the course in a speedy 1:26:47, meaning that both Islands win a place in the National Final.

John Elliot who organised the event says “This year we had a true Channel Islands final with the winners of the Jersey heats coming up to take part. There was a fantastic atmosphere and some friendly rivalry between the Islands.

“All the competitors put in loads of effort and we are excited that both Guernsey and Jersey will be represented in the National Final. This is the first year this has happened and hopefully the start of things to come. Next year we hope to involve Alderney too.”

The Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship, sponsored by Honda and Ribcraft, is a National Championship in which 8-16 year olds RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) drivers can demonstrate their boat handling skills in a race around the clock with the goal of winning a 5m Ribcraft or a Honwave T40 for their club.

David Hodgkinson, Marketing Communications Manager for event sponsor Honda said:

"Our continued association with the RYA Youth RIB Championship allows us to inspire and encourage young people to pursue their passion for boating and engage in worthwhile team-based social activities. Furthermore it allows us to underline our commitment to safety and best practice – something which we take extremely seriously as a major manufacturer of engines and inflatables.”

Thanks to Championship sponsors Honda, and Ribcraft.

For more information about the Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship, details on how to get involved and a list of regional finals scores visit www.rya.org.uk