December 1977 - January 1978

Tom and Ann Bennett write to the class expressing gratitude for three years of competition and community, sharing their transition to Colorado and reflections on their Thistle sailing experience and the friendships made.

The editor welcomes readers to the 33rd year of the Thistle and the first issue under a new administration. He emphasizes the magazine's role in education and community building, encouraging members to submit ideas and articles while highlighting the importance of a balanced publication.

The new president outlines the first year of the new administration, discussing appointments, the relationship with the IRS regarding Section 501(c)(3) status, and the creation of new committees focused on class growth and development.

The class measurer discusses competitiveness and enforcement of rules, addressing how old Thistles are being kept competitive through maintenance and rule enforcement, quoting from the TCA Constitution about keeping costs and standards within modest limits.

Official notice of a special meeting of the Thistle Class Association scheduled for January 16, 1978, in Highland Park, Illinois to vote on proposed constitutional amendments regarding the class's charitable and educational purposes and procedures for dissolution.

Bob White, the 1977 National Champion, reflects on his family's long involvement with Thistles, starting with his father's purchase of boat #69 in 1949, and recounts his journey through competitive sailing and his path to becoming national champion.

A comprehensive technical analysis of the top ten boats at the 1977 National Championship, examining hull designs, construction methods, equipment specifications, and performance characteristics of successful Thistle boats.

Detailed technical examination of two highly tuned Thistle boats, focusing on innovative control line arrangements and rigging systems that provide precise sail trimming capabilities.

A comprehensive guide to the process of filing protests and appeals in Thistle racing, explaining how to properly document protests, the roles of various committees, and the importance of learning racing rules to avoid disputes.

Regatta announcement and schedule for the Mid-Winters West Championship held January 26-29, 1978, at Mission Bay Yacht Club in San Diego, California, with details on registration, race schedule, and accommodation information.

Regatta information and schedule of events for the 1978 Thistle Mid-Winter Championship held March 4-9 at St. Petersburg Yacht Club in Florida, including racing schedule, housing, and event details.

General information and entry details for the 1978 National Championship Regatta held March 4-9 at St. Petersburg Yacht Club in Florida, including general rules, registration procedures, trophy information, and entry form.

First in a series of detailed technical articles on Thistle rigging, focusing on different approaches to rigging the main halyard and the advantages and disadvantages of each method, with illustrations by Bruce Bingham.

An article promoting Thistle sailing through public exhibitions and events, detailing successful promotion strategies and encouraging fleet members to take initiative in marketing the class to potential sailors.

A report on winter sailing conditions during a regatta at the Willamette Sailing Club in Portland, Oregon, where unusual weather conditions created exceptional sailing opportunities for Thistle racers.

Announcement highlighting Fontelieu sails' success at the 1977 Long Island Sound Championships, noting that 80% of the winning fleet used Fontelieu sails, and promoting contact with sail makers for consulting.

A race report on the California District Championships where Peter Hale won decisively in both heavy and light air conditions at the Annapolis regatta, demonstrating versatile sailing skills.

A race report on the Delta District Championships where Hlista took first place, competing against other strong boats with excellent crew work and strategic racing.

A race report on the Michiana District Championships where Klein showed exceptional versatility with three first-place finishes across different wind conditions and race situations.

A report on Dave Ullman's dominant performance at the Pacific Coast Championships, winning first place in multiple races and demonstrating superior boat handling and racing strategy.

A report on the Super Sail regatta where Gover achieved an exceptional victory, competing against other strong fleets with varied wind conditions.

A race report on the Mid-America District Championships where Mehlburger demonstrated superior boat handling and strategy across multiple races and challenging conditions.

A race report on the Long Island - East Coast District Championships where Bauer demonstrated excellent boat handling and strategic racing to win across multiple races and challenging conditions.

A race report on the Atlantic Coast Championship where a boat known as the "Gorilla" achieved a dominant victory across multiple races with exceptional performance in varied wind conditions.

Comprehensive collection of classified advertisements for Thistle boats and equipment, including boats for sale, new sails, used equipment, and related services from vendors and private sellers.