A recording breaking 11 clubs and 29 competitors took part in the Northern Ireland regional final of the Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship over the weekend (23 June), with victories going to Fraser Wright (8-12 age group) and Paul Magowan (13-16 age group).

Both boys will now go on to represent Northern Ireland in the National Final to be held at the Southampton Boat Show in September, where they will pitch their skills against other youngsters from across the country in the hope of being crowned 2007 Champions.

Fraser, aged 11, from the East Down Yacht Club dominated the 8-12 age group with a winning time of 1:17:70, over 12 seconds ahead of second place Gary Fekkes, from the East Antrim Boat Club. Fraser who has been power boating since he was six and competing in his third event, was excited and surprised with his win. He felt that the course had been a tight one which had required skill to get round with few mistakes.

The 13-16 age group was more strongly contested as brothers Paul and Drew Magowan from Quoile Yacht Club and Balleyholme Yacht club member David Furney all battled for the top spot. The three boys have been contesting this event for the past few years, however this year Paul Magowan managed to clinch the winner s title with a winning time of 1:06:97. David hung on for second, just seconds off Paul s time, with Drew claiming third place.

Paul was ecstatic with his win and enjoyed the course which showed off racers control and skill, with an emphasis on tight turning and maintaining speed in order to avoid few mistakes.

Held at River Lagan, one of the event organisers Lisa Waugh said: Despite the blustery, showery weather conditions the race results were very promising. River Lagan is a new venue for the event, competitors are more used to open water, so they were challenged with a tight river course that meant they needed good boat handling skills in order to win, not just fast flat out speed.

We were also delighted with the turnout with more clubs than ever taking part. All the kids who competed and those cheering them on had a great time and we will all be crossing our fingers for the boys in the final.

The Championship allows youngsters to demonstrate their skills as expert boat handlers and improve their skills in a safe, controlled environment.

Each competitor needs to demonstrate skill and control in order to manuovere around a pre-set course in the quickest time. To ensure safety at all times each child is accompanied in the RIB by a competent adult/instructor.

With 15 regional finals taking place between May and September across the country competition is likely to be fierce at the National Final, where finalists will compete to win a 4.8m Ribcraft RIB with a Honda 50hp engine on an Indespension trailer for their club.

Thanks to Championship sponsors Honda, Ribcraft, ICOM and Indespension Trailers. Thanks also to Northern Ireland event local sponsors, Downeys of Newtownards.

For more information about the Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship, details on how to get involved and a list of regional finals scores so far click on the link above.