ONE of the Island’s fastest-growing marine events is motoring ahead at full speed this year, after picking up a high-profile sponsor for the next three years.
Ribex, believed to be the world’s only boat show dedicated solely to rigid inflatable boats (RIBs), has picked up a three-year deal with Suzuki Marine.
The agreement, which comes at a time when many sporting events are struggling to retain sponsors, was made after Suzuki Marine tested the water last year with a one-year sponsorship contract.
"This is fantastic news — to get a three-year deal in a time like this is just brilliant," said Hugo Montgomery-Swan, organiser of Ribex.
"Last year’s sponsorship was a great success and I’m delighted to have such a great name like Suzuki Marine affiliated with the show." The company will have a big presence at the show, which takes place at Cowes Yacht Haven from May 7 to 9.
As well as having its own stand, it will sponsor the Suzuki Food Hall which promises to be bigger and better than last year’s.
Up to 180 RIBS are expected to descend on Cowes for the show.
There will be family RIB rides from the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and the adrenaline-pumping chance for visitors to sit in the navigator seat of a champion RIB and be driven around the Solent by a championship RIB racer.
This year’s show will also feature a one night waterside music concert, RIBFEST, on Saturday, May 8.
Headlining will be high-energy, folk rock sensation Seth Lakeman, with special guests, Swans in Flight, plus an Island band chosen via a competition run through the County Press.
Reporter: martinn@iwcpmail.co.uk