Where can I race a RIB?

Bizzarrini · 22 February 2023, 16:58

I’ve been enjoying my RIBs for the last 3 years and am beginning to get a little competitive itch! Who organises races for RIBs? It seems BIBOA used to but I’m struggling to find any thing going on now. Could someone please point me in the rite direction please.
Thanks.

Matt · 22 February 2023, 19:43

UKOPRA is the organisation you want to get in touch with. They're the sanctioning body for all "relevant" UK racing - both large and small.
https://www.ukopra.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/UKOPRA

Although there is also this lot that do their own thing too:
https://www.ocrda.com/

treerat · 23 February 2023, 09:01

Much depends on the style of racing you fancy, OCRDA is circuit based with smaller boats in the main.

UKOPRA run longer there and back style races, usually with larger boats then those in OCRDA.

These folks are really active locally (to me) and may well know of a local club your end doing something similar - Exe Power Boat and Ski Club (EPBSC) - EPBSC Home Page

The waterski teams like to race if you can find a madman to be on your rear - https://www.bwsw.org.uk/aboutthesport/racing/

If you have a hanging for small fast things - https://www.facebook.com/groups/9381.../?locale=en_GB

or
https://www.facebook.com/ThundercatR.../?locale=en_GB

gtflash · 23 February 2023, 21:59

Also depends on the boat. Racing is about length of boat and power on the back. Get it wrong like me and you won’t fit any reasonable classss

Matt · 24 February 2023, 07:05

@Flash - I pay a bit of attention to the UKOPRA side of things, mostly because I know Kerry. Do the clubs also put on the equivalent of "basic races" at the events too, outside of the sanctioned classes? I stopped paying proper attention to the whole racing scene many years ago.

It's also worth noting that some teams claim they can "win in any class", but recent history suggests this is only by entering a boat that doesn't fit the class.

Bizzarrini · 27 February 2023, 08:58

Thank you all for the great info above. I don’t like the idea of circuit racing, far rather go somewhere and back. UKOPRA seem to do this but not sure how well my new to me but 20 year old diesel RIB will conform to modern classes. Will try and find out.

The BIBOA events of yesteryear looked to be great events with emphasis on fun as much as racing....... Do they still do events? Their web site is quite dated so suspect not.
Thanks Jamie

treerat · 27 February 2023, 14:51

They have a historic race section - you'll fit right in

gtflash · 01 March 2023, 20:24

I’ve not raced in 9 years. License expired and vests in storage.

Biboa was a lovely rib setting.

I wonder what counts as a classic to race in now. Anyone read the rule book lately?

Matt · 01 March 2023, 20:34

Yeah, I still have my kit too.

Voodoo · 02 March 2023, 08:06

Been quite a while now, but have kept my helmet, but now have no race lifejacket, intercom set or race suits......Sometimes wear the helmet if I go karting.....

3C used to rule...!

Bizzarrini · 02 March 2023, 17:08

I’ll need to get race kit although possibly race suit and intercom from motor sports will work.
Got the boat now though, an Scorpion called Ocean Devil so I’m hoping her experience will help train up a new boy...
Can’t wait now I need to find a suitable race for a beginner!!

gtflash · 12 March 2023, 20:16

She’s a good boat and runs very quick for a non stepped hull oil burner. I’m similar size, same make but stepped hull and outboard.

I’d be interested in what you find to race in.

I used an old motorbike intercom until it was stolen. The jackets are expensive, mine are grabner. Quite bulky and you wouldn’t use them for everyday.

Matt · 13 March 2023, 21:02

Yeah, I still have my Hutchwilco too. More of an ornament these days.
https://www.hutchwilco.co.nz/product...ket-slim-line/