Guernsey’s young RIB drivers were out in force this weekend (Saturday, 15 August) when they competed against each other in the Channel Island’s regional final of the RYA Youth Championship to win a place at the National Final in Southampton next month. Icom UK are providing the Championship with a prize of a VHF radio for use at the winner’s chosen club.

In the waters off Guernsey Yacht Club in near perfect conditions, calm seas and not too much sun, the youngsters charged round the timed championship course to post the quickest time possible being careful not to pick up too many time penalties for incorrect manoeuvres on their way round.

Split into two age groups 8-12 and 13-16, competition was fierce between sisters Eloise and Abigail Tanguy who were keen to outdo each other in positioning across their separate classes. After much jest, the best sister was never decided as they both ended up finishing third!

Racing to victory in the younger age group was 10 year old Jacob Sidebottom, posting a time of 02:01:00 and in the older age group 14 year old Nick Parkes who finished with an extremely fast time of 01:18:72.

Both were very pleased to have won, however Nick will be unable to compete in Southampton at the finals so has nominated second place Stephanie Topley to take his place. Having attended the finals once before Stephanie has some useful experience and took up the challenge gladly.

Stephanie commented, “Coming second is always frustrating but I’m really lucky and pleased that I have the opportunity to go to the finals again. I’ll do my absolute best for Nick and the Club (Guernsey Yacht Club) – no pressure!”

Stephanie and Jacob will be competing to win their club a brand new 4.8m Ribcraft RIB powerboat with a 50hp Honda four stroke engine complete with an Indespension trailer and an Icom IC-M505 VHF radio. 

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