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Growth & Promotion

How To Create Thistle Sailors and Build Thistle Fleets

Lloyd Kitchin – 3rd VP, Growth and Promotion May-July 2025 page 5

The 3rd VP shares two practical lessons from his fleet's experience in growing Thistle sailing participation. Lesson 1 emphasizes introducing children ages 6-8 to Thistles through Saturday morning races with rotating winners to keep kids engaged. Lesson 2 describes a pairing program where top finishers mentor last-place competitors to improve skills and provide learning opportunities. Both approaches aim to build sustainable fleet growth.

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  • Growth and Promotion
  • youth sailing
  • fleet development
  • coaching
  • racing