October-November, 1979

Two letters addressing technical sailing topics: one regarding how to right a turtled Thistle, and another discussing epoxy saturation methods for boat hull construction.

The outgoing president reflects on the term in office, discussing decisions made at the Nationals in Massachusetts. He notes the importance of membership growth efforts and previews proposed amendments to be considered at the Annual Meeting.

The interim editor expresses appreciation for the support of contributors and acknowledges the assistance of production staff who helped maintain publication schedule and quality.

The Chief Measurer discusses new requirements for sail markings and numbering on Thistle boats, with specific details about placement and visibility standards established for compliance with the Official Sail Plan.

A detailed account of the 34th National Championship Regatta held at Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts in August 1979. Chris Pollak (603) won the championship in a dramatic display of competitive sailing, with Brent Barbehenn (3231) taking second place. The article captures the intensity of the event with memorable moments including equipment failures and tactical maneuvering.

A photo essay capturing moments of competitors and officials at the 1979 Nationals, including the new champion Chris Pollak and various trophies and awards presentations.

A comprehensive listing of awards presented at the 1979 National Championship recognizing exceptional performance and service to the Class.

Detailed list of prizes and trophies awarded for final standings in both Championship and President's Divisions at the 1979 Nationals.

Tabular presentation of trophy winners for each individual race across all divisions at the 1979 Nationals.

Technical report on the precise measurement methodology and instruments used at the 1979 Nationals, including details on boom length, rudder thickness, shroud location, and quality control procedures implemented by the measurement committee.

Official minutes from a Board meeting held at Tabor Academy during the National Championship, documenting attendance, officer reports, and committee activities.

Summary of reports from various standing and special committees of the Thistle Class Association including nominations, growth and development, racing rules, and site selection.

Official minutes from the Annual Meeting of the Thistle Class Association held at Tabor Academy, documenting proposed amendments, elections, committee reports, and membership actions.

Detailed technical analysis of USMYRU Rule 37.1 governing overlapping boats on the same tack. The author provides three detailed case studies with diagrams illustrating common violations and proper interpretations of the keep-clear rule.

Report on sailing camp programs organized by a Thistle fleet member in Alabama to introduce new sailors to the Class. The initiative has shown significant growth with weekend instruction programs and strong interest from new participants.

Profile of Jim Irwin, who is taking over as editor of the Bagpipe. The piece highlights his family's long involvement with Thistles and his personal interests in sailing and outdoor activities.

Profile of newly elected Commodore Don Stehle, who has been instrumental in Class growth efforts and brings extensive sailing experience from multiple lakes and regions.

Advertisement and article highlighting Shore Sails' accomplishments in 1979, showcasing competition results and emphasizing the quality care taken in sail construction.

Report from a regional trophy series regatta at Fort Worden, Washington, where Howard Seelig (2973) and Beatrice Seelig (2973) captured first place in a well-organized event featuring strong competition and excellent sailing conditions.

Report on Austin, Texas regatta where Jim Kincaid (3598) won the Governor's Cup for the fourth consecutive year with consistent sailing performance throughout the series.

Report on Central Southern Interdistricts championships where Chris Wilson (3601) from Seabrook Sailing Club took top honors in what proved to be excellent sailing weather and strong competition.

Detailed report from Pacific Northwest Districts regatta where Ever Slijper (3346) of Eugene, Oregon won first place in a three-race series featuring challenging wind conditions and close competition.

Report from the first of the LEE fall series regattas held at Berlin Yacht Club featuring 16 Thistle boats competing in moderate conditions with Dick Lilly and wife Jo Ann taking first place.

Report from Cowan, Ontario regatta where the Gilliland family dominated, with Mark Gilliland (2995) taking first place and his brothers Tom (1889) and Jay (3088) also placing among the top finishers.

Report from New England District Championships featuring strong competition and various sailing conditions across the three-race series at Bristol, Rhode Island.

Report from Great Lakes Interdistricts Championship where Mark Gilliland (2995) narrowly defeated Tom Glover (2989) in a dramatic tie-breaking finish, with both skippers putting in exceptional performances.

Report from California Districts Interdistricts Championship where Matt Kraft (635) and Charlie Kraft (1971) maintained competitive performance at Central Atlantic hosting their East Coast tournament with steady results.

Report from Pymatuning Yacht Club's Independence Day regatta where Jack Bauer and crew dominated with consistent performances across the two-race series.

Report from Canacanoe Yacht Club regatta in Rochester, New York where Neil Armstrong (2341) won first place in a three-race series held in varied wind conditions.

Comprehensive section of classified advertisements and boat listings for Thistle boats and related sailing equipment, organized by condition and regional availability.