March 1953

Feature profile of George Bridgman, an ageless 70-plus-year-old sailor who continues to lead Fleet 10 in the Thistler class. Bridgman's success is attributed to his intuition for wind and water conditions, his partnership with his wife Eleanor, and his competitive spirit. His recent season performances show first place finishes across multiple series.

The Executive Committee promulgates seven official rulings for the 1953 season covering materials and equipment specifications. Rulings address Orlon sailcloth, hiking straps, hiking pants, jibsheet leads, spinnaker identification, whisker and spinnaker poles, and include notes on proper documentation and policy statements from the Executive Committee.

The Executive Committee announces that the 1952 National Race Committee duties are disbanded as of August 29, 1952 with no further committee meetings scheduled. The committee also seeks clarification on the status of a prior decision regarding 'Whiskaways' or 'Lassie' that was certified to the APYRU but not yet decided upon as of March 1953.

Fleet 13 in San Diego has had an exceptional early start to their racing season, with three Thistles already in competition. The fleet is planning ambitious races including a deep-water race twenty miles out to the Coronado Islands. The article notes recent visits from sailors from the East Coast and speculates about their influence on Fleet 13's strong performance.

Brief notice that Bill Williams captains his Thistling with the Huntington, Long Island Fleet, recently elected to the Fleet Captain of the Sailing Club Miami University, Oxford, Ohio. He is being engaged in intercollegiate racing this spring.

Sandy Douglass responds to Harry Sindle's concerns about hiking straps being an unfair advantage in Thistler racing. Sandy argues that hiking straps are a necessary tool that equalizes chances among boats regardless of crew weight and physical capability, not a mysterious gadget but rather a time-tested racing technique.

An article advocating for increased television coverage of Thistler racing and sailing. The writer argues that TV exposure provides glamour and novelty that would appeal to viewers and help promote the sport. Local TV stations are beginning to produce educational sports programs, and sailing could benefit significantly from such promotion.

A profile of Bill Sims, who has produced a 30-minute daily sports program called 'The Sports Panel' announced by Phil Butterfield. The program features films from the 1951 National and European championships showcasing Thistler sailing. Bill gained an early interest in sailing and provided public coverage of the races.

A technical column by Roger Moorman discussing various boat building materials and construction methods for Thistlers. Moorman describes colonial woodworking techniques, water-resistant materials, boat construction practices, and various rigging and hardware innovations that builders can use to improve their boats.

A personal letter from Peggy, a long-time correspondent for the Bagpipe, explaining that she is relocating to Europe and must step down from her position. She reflects on her family's history with Thistle sailing, their boat 'National', and various memorable racing experiences from the Potomac river area to competitions at Mission Beach in Virginia.

A compilation of classified advertisements and marketplace listings for Thistle-related boats, equipment, and services. Includes listings for sailboats for sale (Scatawn, Cantle Cog), used equipment (submitters wanted by Lightning skipper), and wanted notices from Thistlers seeking specific items or services.

Sandy Douglass provides technical advice on various Thistle fittings and hardware, addressing questions about shave pins, halyard construction, jib downhaul mechanisms, winches, and other boat equipment. He discusses common problems and practical solutions for maintaining and improving Thistle boat fittings.

A humorous column of sailing anecdotes and stories from the Thistle fleet. Stories include accounts of race tactics, boat handling mishaps, and humorous observations about racing situations and crew interactions during competition.

An informational piece explaining the origins and meanings of various Thistle boat names from Mentor Harbor Fleet 8. The article traces how boat names like 'THISTLE', 'Duncruin', 'Burma Shave' and others were chosen, often reflecting Scottish heritage, historical significance, or playful references. The author speculates on the motivations behind name choices and their connection to Thistle Class traditions.