January-February 1966

An announcement instituting a column devoted to news about the Thistle Class Association, gleaned from the fine newsletter by President Larry Haupt. The column highlights new builders for Thistles (Douglass & McLeod) and notes efforts by association officers to improve communication and organize class business.

A notice on the pending approval of fiberglass centerboards. Chief Measurer Milton stated that samples of new fiberglass centerboards from Douglass & McLeod would arrive within a week, with evaluation work to follow. The use of fiberglass centerboards was noted as pending Chief Measurer approval in sanctioned events.

A detailed technical memo by the Chief Measurer examining centerboard and rudder tolerance specifications for the Thistle class. Minton presents measurement data and specifications for centerboard A dimensions and rudder Z dimensions, discussing how tolerances affect class uniformity and competitive fairness.

A collection of brief notices and announcements including information about Thistle dues, an executive committee appointment, a governing board meeting notice, a correction to meeting minutes, and a report from Concho Thistle Fleet about deadline extensions for First Captain reports.

An introduction to the officers elected to lead the Thistle Class Association for 1966, featuring photographs and brief biographies of President Larry Haupt from Kansas, Vice President Tom Wilson from Kentucky, Chief Measurer Dave Minton from Ohio, and other officers.

A comprehensive listing of Thistle Class District Secretaries and their contact information organized by district region across North America, from Central Atlantic to Southern California.

A comprehensive response by Tom Wilson to criticisms raised by Sandy Douglass regarding the Thistle class's design philosophy. Wilson argues that the class has successfully maintained its one-design principles while adapting to new materials and discusses the importance of balancing expert and non-expert perspectives in class development.

A humorous and touching essay by Norm Williams describing how the Thistle sailboat serves as a vehicle for family participation in racing, from introducing young children to the sport to providing lessons in courage, teamwork, and personal growth through competitive sailing.

A detailed technical analysis of windward sailing techniques by Ned Lockwood, a competitive racer, exploring how to maximize boat speed through wave motion, tiller control, crew weight distribution, and strategic sailing tactics. Part 1 covers wave handling, crew weight management, and jib control strategies.

A letter from Jim Lipscomb addressing concerns about boat and crew weight requirements in the Thistle class. Lipscomb advocates for maintaining realistic weight minimums and provides data on weight variations across boats in recent Nationals, arguing that weight is a factor in competitive success.

A collection of classified advertisements for Thistle boats for sale, boat equipment and accessories (sails, covers, bailers, gloves), insurance offerings, and various boat-related services. Listings include used and new boats at various price points, from inexpensive gear lockers to complete boats.

A comprehensive analysis of questionnaire data gathered from 65 boats at the 1965 Thistle Nationals, examining hull construction materials, mast materials, centerboard types, rudder characteristics, and other design variables to understand which features correlate with competitive performance and boat speed.

An article outlining techniques used by Fleet 21 to maintain sailing interest and raise competitive skill levels among members. The fleet developed programs including winter seminars on tuning and rules, early sailing series with racing challenges, and social events to encourage member participation and skill development.

A survey of newly formed and reactivated Thistle fleets during 1965-1966, describing the growth of the Thistle class geographically across North America. The article highlights new fleet formations in the Willamette Valley (Oregon), Portland area, Northeast (New York/New Jersey), and Great Lakes regions, celebrating the expanding participation in the class.

An announcement that Peter Bordes, a two-time Thistle National Champion, will represent the Thistle Class at a One-of-a-Kind regatta sponsored by Yachting Magazine. The event will be held at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club in March 1966, with Bordes expected to perform well in the competition.

A report on the Eastern Fall Circuit regatta series for 1965, where Walt Stubner achieved the best overall performance among eight qualifying boats. The article notes that this circuit-based competition format provides sailors with multiple racing opportunities across different clubs and venues throughout the fall season.

A report on the annual Southern California Turkey Tussle regatta held November 20-21, featuring a gloomy, cold affair with low winds and challenging sea conditions. Andy Littlejohn emerged victorious, holding off strong competition from other top racers in a competitive field.