WITH spring in the air, the season got under way at Arden Sailing Club with the Spring Handicap on Sunday.
Adverse weather conditions have hampered sailing on the last two attempts but Sunday was different, with 8mph winds, almost balmy temperatures and seven boats eager to take to the water for the hour-long race.
David Stephen (Super Nova) had a great start, hitting the line within seconds of the gun and quickly gaining a commanding lead.
He was followed by Ralph Evans in his Solo, executing a steady relentless pursuit. Stephen fell into a hole in the wind at the distance mark on the final lap, allowing Evans to close the gap which he then maintained to the end.
Although Stephen finished some 38 seconds ahead on the water, the win was taken on boat handicap by Evans.
The other battle was between two Herons. An exciting contest followed as both skippers executed tactics to cover the other’s wind, avoid the stronger currents and find the best winds.
It was good to see new member Steve Ryder on the water in his Solo. He made a brave attempt to keep up with the fleet considering it was his first time on the river and his first time sailing a centre main boat.
Results: 1st Ralph Evans (Solo); 2nd David Stephen (Super Nova); 3rd David Yule (Heron); 4th David Bryden (Heron).
Visit www.ardensc.org.uk for details of membership, training and events.