ELEVEN young powerboaters from sailing clubs around the area showcased their skills on Lymington river when they competed in the Southern Region Final of the Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship.

Reigning national champion Harrison Faul from Poole retained his crown when he defeated six other young powerboaters in the 13-16 age group.

Harrison, 14, was representing the Royal Motor Yacht Club and scored the best time of the event to celebrate his third win at regional level.

Victory also went to local 12-year-old William Hancock, who was representing the Royal Lymington Yacht Club in the 8-12 division. He said: “I was really pleased with my time. I love the speed!”

The winners go forward to compete at the National Final of the Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship, to be held at the PSP Southampton Boat Show on Sunday, September 15.

The Honda RYA Youth Rib Championship, sponsored by Honda and Ribcraft, is a national championship in which eight to 16-year-old RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) drivers can demonstrate their boat handling skills in a race against the clock in the hope of winning a 4.8m Ribcraft or Honwave T40 for their club at the Southampton finals.

The courses involve tricky timed manoeuvres, including a high speed slalom, a stop exercise and a blast to the finish line, to test every aspect of the youngsters’ powerboat driving skills.

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