December/January 1990

Hubbell reflects on the TCA's organization and achievements, highlighting the strong financial position and the legacy of devoted leadership. He credits the recently appointed new officers for bringing expertise to their roles and notes the Bagpipe's continuation of editorial excellence.

The new editors introduce themselves and explain the Bagpipe's purpose as a source of information about TCA actions, class opinions, and sailing tactics. They encourage contributions and welcome diverse perspectives from the membership.

Gowans describes his personal journey with Thistles, his involvement with Thistle promotion through various sailing clubs, and his vision for growing the class through enthusiasm and engagement with new sailors. He emphasizes the need for promotion and encouragement to bring more young people into the sport.

Chapin, South Carolina hosted a centennial celebration featuring a unique challenge match race between the Thistle fleet and a local J24 fleet. The format was an "M" course designed to showcase sailing with spectators, local clubs, and media coverage.

Lovett introduces his role as new Chief Measurer and reflects on the measurement process, class rules, and the importance of maintaining balance in the class. He discusses his background in Thistle sailing and his commitment to fairness in enforcement.

Moyer describes his harrowing experience sailing a Thistle in heavy air on Lake Travis in Austin, Texas, where he crewed for Russell Painton. The article chronicles a dramatic capsize and near-disaster, followed by practical advice on surviving and handling heavy air conditions in Thistles.

A poetic recounting of the 1989 Nationals in Sayville, celebrating the skippers, crew, organization, and camaraderie that made the event successful. The piece highlights various competitors and the festive atmosphere of the championship.

Event announcement and registration information for the 1990 Midwinters East regatta scheduled for March 5-9 in St. Petersburg, Florida, with a schedule of daily activities and entry details.

Comprehensive technical and crew data for the top ten skippers at the 1989 Nationals, including hull and centerboard specifications, rigging details, sails, and crew weights and relationships.

A roundtable discussion featuring the top ten skippers from the 1989 Nationals sharing their insights on boat setup, crew selection, starting strategy, teamwork, and tactical approaches that contributed to their championship success.

Remter reports on the Southeastern Districts held at Atlanta Yacht Club on April 22-23, featuring 28 boats competing in a three-race series with a dramatic course that produced close finishes and exciting competition.

Mahan describes the Central-Southern Interdistricts hosted by the Razorback Thistle Fleet at Little Rock, Arkansas, which featured twenty Thistles competing in four races with dynamic wind conditions, strong women skippers, and an especially successful Saturday night dinner.

Kingshill recounts the 9th Annual Separation Day Regatta on the Delaware River celebrating New Castle's separation from the crown. Despite treacherous weather with high winds and capsizes, the event featured three races and afterward celebrations with beer and kegs.

Dickson describes the 1989 Mid-America District Championships held over July 3-4 at Lake Arkabutla, south of Memphis, which featured stormy weather but ultimately produced exciting racing with diverse conditions for the fleet.

Petroff recounts the first of two annual regattas hosted by Lake Murray Sailing Club on June 3-4, featuring light to moderate winds and a shortened course that produced close competition and interesting sailing conditions on the lake.

Buffett reports on the NJ District Championships held at Lake Hopatcong Yacht Club on June 17-18, featuring seventeen boats competing in three races with close competition between leading skippers throughout the event.

A tribute to Frederick Lancor, who passed away from a heart attack while racing his sailboat on Tampa Bay. The article notes his active participation in the Florida District and his dedication to Thistle sailing.

Millen reports on the 1989 Pacific Northwest District Regatta at Shilshole, featuring thirty-two Thistles competing with light air and various wind conditions throughout the weekend.

Millen describes the Tacoma Regatta held on August 19-20 at Riffe Lake with 26 crews racing across five good races. The regatta featured the first "A" and "B" fleet concept and a fleet dinner with friendly camaraderie.

Millen recounts the Yale Lake Regatta in Portland featuring 33 Thistles competing over a weekend of variable wind conditions. The report includes an anecdote about Harry Wingard's protest experience and a story about "dealing with the Gods."

Cochrane reports on the Pacific Coast Championship held in San Diego Bay on July 22-23, which featured competitive racing in light to moderate winds with Mikey Gillum earning first place, followed by close competition from other top skippers.

A photographic essay celebrating Thistle sailing across generations, featuring images of award ceremonies, families, youth, and social gatherings that demonstrate the inclusive and age-spanning nature of the class.

A collection of classified advertisements and boat-for-sale listings from Thistle owners and vendors, including restored boats, equipment, sails, and services related to Thistle sailing.