ARDEN Sailing Club attracted their best turn-out in recent years for the Icicle Race.

Eight boats started the 2008 schedule in pleasant, calm conditions with Ralph Evans looking to defend the title in his Solo boat.

Stuart Stephen made good early progress in his Enterprise against Niall Campbell and Jane Smee, while David Stephen was third.

Evans just managed to work through the pack to find clear air in fourth place before slipping past David Stephen.

On the downwind leg, the top three were all brought together with Evans taking over in second and chasing Campbell for first.

By the time the leading boats passed the clubhouse, Evans drew level and rounded the railway mark in first place.

Campbell was eventually beaten by just half-a-boat length as Evans successfully retained his trophy.

Keith Stevens was fourth, followed by Alan Salerman, David Stephen, David Appleby and E Williams.

The spring handicap starts in March.