March-April 1977

Editor discusses classified ad policies and requests that skippers submit their regatta reports to ensure accurate publication of race results.

President reports on successful Mid-Winters regattas at St. Petersburg and emphasizes the importance of the 60-day co-ownership rule and opportunities for new skippers to build crews.

Chief Measurer reports on new rulings regarding mast and centerboard specifications to address overloading and improve consistency in boat building.

Dave Ullman dominated the 1977 Mid-Winters West regatta at Mission Bay with five first-place finishes, earning the title with an impressive sailing record. The event featured 45 Thistlers from across the country in strong competition with varied weather conditions.

Comprehensive schedule of Thistle Class regattas for 1977, organized by month from April through November, including major championships, regional districts, and local events.

Biography of sailor Larry Klein tracing his sailing career from childhood sailing lessons through competitive racing, culminating in his 1976 TCA Nationals runner-up finish and return to Thistle sailing.

Article detailing the behind-the-scenes organization of a successful regatta, explaining the roles of various committees, cost management, and strategies to ensure good attendance and enjoyable experience for participants.

Technical analysis of spinnaker design and cloth characteristics, comparing crosscut, roller, radial, and tri-radial head designs, and discussing materials like Stabikote and Dynac with their performance implications for Thistle sailing.

Q&A roundtable discussion among expert Thistle sailors covering boat setup, steering techniques, and helm balance in various wind and sea conditions. Topics include weather helm, crew positioning, and racing strategies.

Training guide explaining the roles and responsibilities of Regional Vice-Presidents in coordinating TCA activities and regatta scheduling across the different geographic regions of the Thistle Class Association.

Continuation of the regatta organization article discussing housing arrangements, social activities, trophies and awards, and key factors for successful event management.

Announcement of a new perpetual award in the South Atlantic Thistle District for "Excellence in Thistle Class Regatta Management" to promote healthy competition and better-run events across district regattas.

Classified ads section featuring boat sales, boat components, services, and equipment listings from various Thistle Class members and marine businesses across the country.

Report on Pacific Coast Inter-Districts regatta showing Marty Seelig winning overall with multiple first-place finishes, followed by Jim Moyer in second. Includes race results and analysis of competition during the event.

Report on the Canacnoe Regatta held by fleets #10 with variable wind conditions and exciting racing, featuring detailed race results and commentary on competitors' performance.

Report on the annual two-day Thanksgiving Regatta held at Davis Island YC in Tampa, Florida, with variable wind conditions and exciting competition throughout, including final standings.

Report on the East Coast Fall Series regatta at Buzzards Bay where Fontelieu III won, followed by Barlow and Richards, with detailed race analysis and final standings.