LBS Weekend 10/11 Jan

[Chris Murray]

Sorry Manos,

I thought ExCel was MUCH BETTER than Earls Court!

I bought a waterproof(-ish) Icom IC-M31 for when I get thrown out of my "tender".

No "big" boat at the mo, so I'm thinking of changing the name of my current boat "TT Aries II" to something like "Waiting for the Big One" but I'm sure Alan P (or someone of similar RIBbing status) has used that for something else. I guess I shall have to try to be more original!

Regards,

Chris.

[Manos]

I prefered ERLSCOURT Chris closer to Glos

[Dirk Diggler]

Hey Manos, I bet you were dissapointed that their weren't any Baja's being exhibited this year, must be about time for an upgrade on your current model!!!!

[Daniel]

IMHO it's a better location, easier to get to from the SE too.

A couple of big boats to look round (one big greyone and one with big masts) and a fairly unique chance to have a look round a lifeboat.

More space and less crowded.

'bargins' not obvious but they never are unless you are looking for them. I would say the normal show discounts were there, but ilve always viewed it as more of an opportunity to look and feel before you buy - kinda like a huge chandlers really.

Infact i never find there is enough time to look in one day (being into all things water) so I'm there again tommorow with a different group of friends.

Oh, finally, the FIB is something that has to be seen, they are about £12k+vat i think.

[Ian]

I also prefer Excel to Earls Court. It appeared bigger and plenty of room. No overcrowding on the boat stands and plenty of free space to look at items. The East Hall was a little different but the stands were close together and it was a struggle to move round.
All in all I think this is a much better venue, it was a shame that this weekend the pool was closed.

How is ribing promoted? It isn't on ITV! They ran a programme today covering the LBS. Yacht's, dinghy's, Honda racing and the 'Gin Palaces' were covered. I didn't see one rib shown or discussed. The majority of people watching the programme would spend a few k on a boat, not £1.3m. Maybe the programme designers need to get in the real world and appeal to wallets, not just dreams.

[Steve Care]

Hi All

Just got back from LBS had a great day, Got free ticket and parking in the vip car park for free out side the east doors! Fantastic
Hopefully now sorted and going for the Mercury 135 optimax as seems like a great deal.
Bought a icom M31 for £139 so a good deal there.
Wife and I got new off shore suit's. Should keep us warm and dry.
Lunch in the rya restaurant upstairs and drinks in the guiness bar
Seems like the perfect day

Steve

[Louise]

We also had a great day out at the show today. Met up with a couple of RIBnetters and took a few photos which will be posted soon.

Happy to report that the Jackeens are safe & well and should be posting again soon.

[Manos]

Something of interest I think.

I had a look at the GECO helmet gear and have to say that they look and fit great!! and they have all the gismos (like that one with the cam on it )

Good staff and reasonably priced too

[simmons0]

oooh, bargain of the week, 2 small blue chart chips for £120!

Arranged to meet Lee fairweather to put in an order for the new boat. Did anyone see the solent rib on display? it looked fantastic.