Judges Named for 2011 IBEX Innovation Awards

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The National Marine Manfacturers Association (NMMA) and Boating Writers International (BWI) recently announced this year’s judges for the 2011 International Boatbuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) Innovation Awards taking place Oct 17-19 in Louisville, Ky.

The NMMA and BWI will recognize up to 13 new products at IBEX 2011, plus one Environmental Award. Exhibiting companies must have their products submitted by Sept. 20 for consideration. To enter, and to find out more information including a list of categories, click here.

The judges’ committee is made up of BWI members who perform product testing throughout the year and have expertise in marine OEM and equipment. This year’s judges include:

• Committee Chair Alan Wendt, past editor of Marine; CEO, Getaways!, and Adventures magazines; contributor to TalkoftheDock.com.
• Zuzana Prochazka, editor, TalkoftheDock.com; technical editor, Latitudes and Attitudes; freelance for publications including Sea, Sail, and Yachtworld, Lakeland Boating, and DIY Boatowner; president, BWI
• Frank Lanier, accredited maine surveyor; public speaker; and contributor to numerous publications including Sea, Practical Sailor, Lakeland Boating, and Southern Boating
• Susan Canfield, accredited marine surveyor; technical writer; and Wooden Boat School Instructor
• Roger McAfee, former lawyer; contributor to Pacific Yachting, Sea magazine, Southern Boating, Lakeland Boating, ShowBoats International and Dockwalk; past president of the Metal Boat Society
• Brady Kay, editor, Pontoon & Deckboat magazine and Houseboat magazine
• Patricia Kearns, former ABYC technical assistant; contributor to DIY Magazine; founder and CEO of Marine Experts Group; maritime consultant; and frequent speaker at IBEX