Comprehensive coverage of multiple regattas across the South during May-June 1959, including the Farragut Championships won by Evans Harrell, the Cotton Carnival won by Wheat Cleveland, the Dixie International, and local downwind racing events in various fleets.
Southern RegattasIssue · 1959
June 1959
17 articles
The Chief Measurer clarifies TCA rules regarding adjustable mast steps, ruling that such devices are not permitted on Thistles, as the mast step must remain fixed and not be altered during racing.
Mast Development & Rig TuningThe editor's column featuring commentary on class activities, Southern Regatta Circuit coverage, interest in Thistles in Bermuda, fiberglass boat development, and letters from class members about various topics.
Regatta Calendars & SchedulingDoug Westin, TCA President, addresses class concerns about unauthorized experimentation with adjustable jibs and other equipment modifications, warning that such changes violate class rules and should not be used in sanctioned events.
Constitutional Amendments & Class RulesAn adventure narrative about two young Thistle sailors who undertake an unexpected overnight sailing journey across Lake Erie during windy conditions, landing in a different state and requiring a trailer to recover their boat.
Reader Stories & AnecdotesFinal plans for the 1959 Thistle Nationals at St. Petersburg, Florida, including race schedule, registration information, and announcement that five qualifying boats will receive free lodging courtesy of the St. Petersburg Yacht Club.
Midwinters East RegattaDetailed schedule of events for the 1959 Thistle Nationals at St. Petersburg, August 23-28, including registration times, race schedules, and social events.
Midwinters East RegattaDetailed photographic documentation of the experimental fiberglass Thistle under construction in California, showing internal structure modifications including centerboard well and buoyancy tank reinforcements.
Hull Construction & MaterialsContinuation of instructional article on techniques for racing Thistles in heavy wind conditions, covering planing techniques, sail trim, boat handling, and tactical positioning for different wind scenarios.
Racing Technique & Boat Handling InstructionList of newly registered Thistle boats numbered 1236 and above, representing new memberships joining the class during this period.
Membership, Dues & New Fleet WelcomesListing of upcoming Thistle regattas scheduled throughout the summer and fall, including the Heather Bowl, Governor's Cup, Open Regatta, Cape May Regatta, and Fall Series.
Regatta Calendars & SchedulingRegional regatta schedules organized by district, providing dates and contact information for Thistle regattas across different geographic areas including Michiana, California, New Jersey, South Atlantic, and others.
Regatta Calendars & SchedulingAdvertisement and product feature for Bello Bailers, a self-bailing device designed specifically for small sailboats, with explanation of how the device works and testimonials from successful Thistle racers.
Rigging Tips, Hardware & GadgetsDetailed schedule of Lake Erie District Thistle Invitational regattas for 1959, organized by month with fleet numbers, host clubs, and dates throughout June through October.
Great Lakes & Midwest DistrictsAnnouncement of the Atlantic Coast Championships to be sailed by the Severn Sailing Association at Annapolis, Maryland on August 15-16.
Northeast & Mid-Atlantic DistrictsDetailed product advertisement for the new Bello Bailer self-bailing device, including technical specifications, operational details, and testimonial from Doug Westin about how the bailer improved his racing performance.
Rigging Tips, Hardware & GadgetsClassified advertisements including boats for sale, Thistle jewelry, miniature Thistle models, boat fittings, and accessories from various sellers and dealers.
Classifieds & Marketplace