July-August 1977

Correspondence from readers regarding the transfer of Thistle #797 to a new owner and the importance of proper documentation and registration with the Class Association.

The president discusses two important articles about Thistle history and philosophy, reflecting on the class's values and approach to growth and organization while addressing the challenges of transitioning to new editorial leadership.

A comprehensive guide for Thistle sailors on how to write regatta reports for publication, covering mechanics, format standards, photography tips, and writing style to help produce quality coverage that serves the broader Thistle community.

A detailed technical analysis of failures in Thistle mast design and construction, examining the evolution from aluminum to new materials, design specifications, and the structural factors that contribute to both catastrophic and stress-related failures.

A lighthearted article suggesting Scottish names for Thistle sailboats, drawing on the class's Scottish heritage and providing examples of historic Scottish place names and characters.

A personal account of an extended Thistle cruising adventure across the Caribbean and Gulf coasts, describing boat selection, sailing experiences, and the author's evolution from racing competitor to cruising enthusiast.

A technical examination of spinnaker design tradeoffs including shape, construction methods, and fabric choices, with detailed analysis of how different design decisions affect sailing performance and handling characteristics.

A profile of two important Thistle leaders: Rod Clouse, who founded the Great Lakes fleet and led as skipper and fleet secretary, and Ron Smith, a Pacific Coast regional VP who has been instrumental in acquiring new techniques and competitive spirit.

An editorial note on the content and photography of regatta reports, discussing standards for coverage, photography sourcing, and editorial practices for maintaining quality across the Bagpipe's race reports.

Race report of the annual Canacanoe Regatta, with detailed results showing Greg Eiffert's victory and analysis of sailing conditions and competitor performance.

Report of the 1977 Dixie Regatta won by Andy Fox, detailing competitive sailing conditions and trophy winners across various categories.

Race report of the Farragut Regatta held at Lake Lanier Sailing Club, detailing competition results and highlights of the sailing conditions.

Report of the 1977 Cowan Lake Regatta in Ohio, highlighting Mark Gilliland's victory and the competitive conditions in the Midwinters, Nationals, and District Championships.

Coverage of the Southern California District's Suncoast Series results, where Bob van't Riet and Skip Kempf competed in a trailing series format.

Race report of the Ridgewood Regatta on Lake Ridgewood in New Jersey, with detailed sailing conditions and final race results.

Report of the New Jersey Red Chevron District Championship regatta held at Dragon Canoe Club, covering race conditions and final results.

Report of the Doldrums Regatta, a Red Chevron event won by M. Gregory, with race details and final standings.

Report of the Florida Red Chevron District Championship regatta held at San Gulf Yacht Club, with detailed race conditions and final results.

Announcement of the 1978 National Championship regatta site bidding process and potential locations across Great Lakes, Eastern, and Western areas.

Report of the Bottoms Up regatta on Lake Murray, where John Davidson sailed a strong regatta and Harrell won first place overall.

Announcement from Fontelieu Sails about successful performance of their sails at Long Island Sound Championships, with contact information for orders and advice.

Report of the South Atlantic District Championship where Wesley sailed a dominant performance to capture the title ahead of other competitors.

Report of the Pacific Northwest District Championship regatta held at Tacoma Yacht Club, detailing Wolfe's victory and competitive conditions.

Report of the Mentor Harbor Yacht Club regatta won by Bob White, with detailed race coverage and tactical analysis of the sailing conditions.

Report of the Lake Lanier S.C.'s Ev Harrell winning the Southeast spring regatta series by scoring well across multiple events.

Report of the Corinthian Yacht Club of Tacoma's first annual One Design Regatta held June 18th and 19th, featuring Laura's victory and analysis of competition.

Listings of Thistle sailboats for sale, boat equipment, sails, and marine hardware with pricing and contact information from various dealers and private sellers.