Honda Youth RIB Simulator proves a success 

Brand new simulator makes its debut at RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show

For the first time at the show, visitors could test their skills on the Honda Youth RIB simulator, based in the Panorama Hall at Alexandra Palace.

Visitors of all ages were encouraged to complete the championship course, with an ICOM IC-M25 VHF handheld radio going to the fastest time from each day. 

Saturday’s winner was Geoff Stones in 1.04.66, whilst Hamish Webb took Sunday’s prize with a time of 1:08:56.  

Andrew Norton, RYA Honda Youth RIB Event Director, said: "The Simulator was fantastically popular at the show. We had hundreds of visitors both young and old try their hand at completing the course, and we're delighted with how it was received.

We are grateful to Honda and VMach Media for making this possible, and believe it gave a real insight into the skills needed to succeed in the RYA Honda Youth RIB Championship.”

"We're now really excited to begin the Regional Finals, and look forward to welcoming more competitors this year."

RIBs are light, manoeuvrable craft and the boats driven in the Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship can hit speeds of up to 27 knots.

Now in its 15th year, the regional finals of the 2016 Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship will begin at Ballyholme Yacht Club in Northern Ireland on May 7. 

All 13 RYA regions and Home Countries will host a regional final, before the winners battle it out for the national crown at Southampton Boat Show in September.