Island Race gets underway at Ferry Reach (2 p.m.) Four of last year's champions return this year -- Andy Stoneham, Andrew DeCosta, Howard Paynter and Derek Simons all seeking more glory in the glamour event on the local power boat racing calendar.

However, each will be hard pressed with 30 boats expected at the start line.

Making it more interesting is the fact that no one has really dominated in offshore races so far this season.

"Everyone has an equal chance, especially with the breakdowns that can occur,'' said Kevin Constable, Commodore of the Bermuda Power Boat Association. "I expect a fast race if the weather holds up and the record stands a good chance of being broken.'' Simons just missed setting a new record last year as he came in 16 seconds outside the mark of 37 minutes, 43 seconds established by Kevin Stevens and Henry Trott in 1987. And, Simons and Trott may see a lot of one another tomorrow, both battling in the `S' Class. Newcomer -- to the class -- Kirk Roberts may also have a say in the outcome.

`A' Class defending champion DeCosta will not have Jason Pimental as his co-driver this time around. The latter will instead challenge for DeCosta's title as he pilots his own boat partnered by Chris Smith. Luis Martin will co-pilot for DeCosta.

However, the most competitive class may well prove to be the `C' Class, with five boats being guided by seasoned racing veterans, including Stoneham, Kurt Benevides, Mark Furtz and Craig Nesbitt. Michael Aruja, who has been racing abroad, injects an element of mystery into the proceedings.

Paynter will not face a challenge from the family team of Clyde and Dean Boorman in Class `B' - both having moved to Class `D' -- but the duo of Ian Whitehead and Jim Sword, as well as Constable and Travis Lewis, should give Paynter and Marvin Trott a run for their money.

Eight entrants make `D' the largest class.

PARTING COMPANY -- Andrew DeCosta and Jason Pimentel, above, winners of the `A' Class last year, will drive separate craft tomorrow.