September - October 1956

Sandy Douglass wins the 1956 Thistle National Championship with five firsts in ten races, continuing his dominant record in the class. The article recounts the championship series at Mentor Harbor Yachting Club near Cleveland, with detailed race-by-race commentary from the five-day event.

Arthur Arms welcomes the New Editor of the Bagpipe and reflects on changes in the Thistle organization. He discusses the formation of new Memphis Fleet #62, reviews the membership growth from 1000 boats in TCA, and expresses optimism about future development.

Fleet reports and correspondence from various Thistle fleets around the country, with updates on local activities, boat building progress, and upcoming regional events. Includes letters discussing Fleet #45 growth and various fleet activities.

Collection of anecdotes and observations from the 1956 National Championships at Mentor Harbor, including stories about participants, accommodations, and social activities during the regatta.

Report on the First Tri-State Regatta held by Cincinnati Thistles, featuring competitors from Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky with five races sailed across the event.

Collection of classified advertisements and boat for sale listings from various Thistle owners, including sailboats in various conditions with different rigging and equipment options.

Biographical profile of Ray McLeod, a prominent Thistle sailor and boat builder who has been instrumental in the promotion and sale of Thistle sailboats for over a decade. The article traces his sailing experience and his work in boat construction.

Dick Parker reports on Fleet 54 activities, including the swimming and snapper fishing activities of the Thistle Fleet, and recounts humorous stories of boat mishaps and sailing adventures during the 1956 season.

Photo essay featuring action shots of the Thistle fleet racing at the 1956 National Championships, showcasing various boats competing in the fifth race with detailed captions identifying participating sailors and their positions.

Photo gallery showing the championship winners and their crews from the 1956 Thistle National Championships, including first through fifth place finishers and their awards celebration at Mentor Harbor.

Continuation of fleet reports covering various regional Thistle activities, regatta standings, and race results from multiple districts including Cowan Lake, Pymatuning, and Lake Michigan competitions during summer 1956.

Detailed article exploring the phenomenon of Fleet #69 of Indianapolis and its rapid growth from 11 members in June 1955 to over 22 charter members by July-August 1956. Discusses how sailing clubs in Indianapolis have embraced the Thistle class and the future prospects for growth.

Photo essay featuring candid photographs of Thistle sailors and their families at the 1956 National Championships, with captions identifying participants and highlighting notable performances and personalities.

Regatta report from the Sandusky Bay Regatta held August 11-12 on Lake Erie, featuring detailed race-by-race accounts of challenging sailing conditions. Includes race results table and anecdotes from the fleet's experience at this significant Thistle event.