February/March 1989

President Keran discusses the possibility of hosting the nationals at non-traditional sites like Huntington Lake and addresses the USYRU funding proposal for a Sail Identification Device (SID). He encourages members to write articles for the Bagpipe, noting the value of sharing humorous personal stories about Thistle sailing experiences.

Burnham proposes a universal Sail Identification Device (SID) program to fund USYRU operations rather than increasing membership dues. Each sail would carry a small plastic button bearing a serial number, purchased for $5, allowing sailmakers to pass the cost to sailors and helping USYRU fund its racing, training, and insurance programs.

Finefrock describes the Thistle Class system for promoting new membership, where prospective owners are connected with local fleet representatives. He shares a letter from John Power, a prospective owner who had a positive experience being guided through the process by Bill Poole in Bristol and expresses interest in joining the class.

McCutcheon encourages increased participation and involvement in the class at all levels, from fleet building to leadership positions. He emphasizes the importance of helping new boat owners understand the Class and the RMD requirement, and provides guidance on fair pricing when buying or selling used Thistles.

Douglas presents a comprehensive historical essay on the origins and design philosophy of the Thistle class, tracing its ancestry to early 20th century small boat sailing and the economic depression that created demand for affordable sailboats. He discusses the design objectives, construction innovations using the Vidal process, and the Thistle's unique characteristics that have made it one of the largest and most active one-design classes.

Bauer uses a specific racing incident from Lake Erie to explain Rule 37 regarding same-tack basic rules in yacht racing. He discusses the nuances of overlapped versus non-overlapped situations, and how different rule sections apply when boats transition from clear astern to overlapped positions.

Gillum recounts a memorable summer road trip from Southern California to Flathead Lake, Montana, where four families with Thistles traveled together. The narrative details vehicle troubles (including a Hearse radiator problem and Pontiac water pump issues), memorable sightseeing stops, and the experience of racing at the Thistle Nationals.

Race report from the East Coast Fall Series event at the Goetz Memorial Regatta. Multiple Thistles competed with Ed Barbehenn winning first place. Results show competitive racing with top finishers from various regions.

Report on the 1988 Heather Bowl regatta held at the Red Dragon Canoe Club in Beverly, New Jersey. Twenty-four Thistles sailed four races in varying wind conditions with two to nine-point gaps between boats. Ed Barbehenn won the event with a team including crew member.

Summary recognizing winners in the 1988 East Coast Fall Series. Jim Grundy and Pete Flood received awards for their performance and contributions. Pete Flood's recognition includes note about his administrative work distributing regatta flyers.

Report from the April 9-10 Dinghy Frostbite - Rush Creek regatta. Three races held in light air and challenging conditions with variable winds. Tom Glover dominated the event with first place finishes in multiple races.

Report on the May 21-22 Delta District Championship held in Waco, Texas. The race took longer than usual this year with new boats in the district. Kelson Elam, Chuck Kaulholz, and Gary Cason captured a private shift in favorable wind.

April 23-24 event report from Shreveport where a typical summer day weather pattern affected racing. The regatta featured the Second Annual Shreveport Fun Race with competitive racing and various challengers. Race committee kept the event organized despite windy conditions.

June 11-12 regatta report from Seabrook with moderate winds and low humidity making for ideal sailing conditions. Four Houston area boats showed up with mixed results, with tactical thinking and varied wind creating competitive racing throughout.

Report from the Cave Run Lake regatta held in October. The regatta featured a beautiful autumn weekend setting with competitive sailing and various social activities. Courses designed to test sailor skills with wind and water conditions creating a good "escape weekend" experience.

October 15-16, 1988 regatta at Lake Monroe, Bloomington, Indiana where 15 Thistles competed in light to variable wind conditions. Dick Tarr dominated the competition with consistent finishes while weather and tide variations challenged competitors.

Collection of classified boat sales listings and marine services advertisements including new and used Thistle sailboats available at various price points throughout North America, plus canvas and cover services, custom boat covers, and commercial restoration services.