August-September, 1979

A sailor writes about the value of motor vehicles for long-distance travel to regattas, highlighting how a VW Dasher wagon has proven practical for transporting family and equipment to Thistle events across the country.

The Bagpipe Photo Contest acknowledges all who submitted entries and encourages more photographers to participate in future contests to ensure adequate entries.

President Minton discusses the class's fuel consumption concerns, announces changes to the R&D quota voting procedures, and highlights upcoming educational materials in the Constitution/By-Laws booklet.

A detailed account of a summer vacation camping adventure with a Thistle sailboat, traveling from Chicago to Mackinac Island and through the Great Lakes and Canadian provinces, exploring various camping sites and sailing opportunities along the way.

A memorial tribute honoring Dave Minton's lifetime of service to the Thistle Class, his influence on boat design and development, and his dedication to organizing competitive sailing at both local and national levels.

A detailed technical article exploring the principles and practical methods of sailing a Thistle without a rudder, covering boat balance, weight distribution, and systematic techniques to teach sailors fundamental boat handling skills.

A dramatic account of a near-catastrophic accident during the Super Sail VI regatta when a Thistle capsized in heavy waves, resulting in crew injury and a rescue operation that highlights the importance of safety precautions at regattas.

A philosophical exploration of winning and losing in sailboat racing, examining the motivations behind competitive sailing and the personal satisfaction that comes from improvement and honest competition.

Announcement and display of winning photographs from the inaugural Bagpipe Photo Contest, featuring maritime scenes, sailing action, and Thistle-related imagery with commentary on each prize-winning entry.

Report of the Bottoms Up Regatta held on Lake Murray in South Carolina, where 21 Thistles participated in strong winds and challenging conditions, with results and highlights from the event.

Report of the Berlin Invitational Regatta held on Holden Lake near Columbus, Ohio, where Paul Wood won the event over a fleet of 93 boats in varied wind conditions, with detailed race results.

Report of the Florida Sailing State Championship where a fleet of Thistles competed in varying wind conditions, with Steve Calder and Dick Rauber demonstrating competitive performance before Payne took victory in the finals.

Report of the Dixie Regatta where Greg Fisher's fleet won with strong performances throughout the three-race series, with results and details about the competitive fleet at Atlanta's Yacht Club.

Account of the 1979 Southeast Series regatta marked by heavy winds and light gasoline, with detailed results from each regatta in the series including Orange Peel, Admiral Farragut, Dixie, and Bottoms Up.

Report of the South Atlantic Thistle Districts regatta where consistency in sailing and strong performance throughout determined the winner, with detailed analysis of race results and individual skipper performances.

Report of the Eight-Ball Regatta at Geist Reservoir where Greg Fisher's consistent performance secured victory in variable wind conditions, with comprehensive race results.

Report of the Southern California District Championship won by Skip Kempff, featuring descriptions of sailing conditions and crew achievements, along with information about insurance and boat sales services.

Report of the Lake Erie West Spring Series inaugural event at Alum Creek Reservoir in central Ohio, with race details and results from the competition.

Safety note warning about the hazards of fiberglass resin catalysts used in boat maintenance, particularly the risk of eye damage from MEKP catalyst exposure and recommendations for protective equipment.

Comprehensive collection of classified advertisements for Thistle sailboats, equipment, sails, and related services, featuring boats for sale, used equipment listings, and commercial offers from suppliers.