June/July 1995

North Sails advertises their commitment to serving Thistle sailors through research, development, and testing. The company highlights their performance at the 1995 Thistle Midwinters championships and quality manufacturing standards.

North Sails announces the addition of Bill Draheim, a former Thistle National Champion, to their One-Design team. Based in Dallas, Draheim will maintain a North service loft and support sailors on the regatta circuit.

President Dave Valla discusses upcoming Thistle 50th Anniversary events and emphasizes the importance of fair administration of the quota system. He mentions committee changes and the planning for one of the most competitive Nationals in Thistle history.

Hoffman discusses growth in Thistle fleet ownership, noting a 100% increase in new members. He explores co-ownership as a strategy to promote boat ownership and class growth, drawing from his own experience with shared Thistle ownership.

Fleet directory listing new Thistle boat owners and associates who joined the class, organized by geographic district from Carolinas to Southern California.

Zetterberg provides comprehensive guidance on towing techniques for Thistles, including equipment needs, safety considerations, rope specifications, and procedures for safe towing operations at regattas.

Gillum showcases various trophy designs from Thistle regattas over the years, highlighting unique and functional trophies including paddles, prints, tiles, and decorative items from local artists and class members.

Finefrock provides an update on the 50th Anniversary Celebration Regatta and Nationals planning, noting that details are nearly complete with three days of sailing, social activities, and festivities planned.

Mills recounts his maiden voyage on Georgian Bay with his recently purchased boat, describing the challenges of navigating unfamiliar waters, dealing with inclement weather, and the joy of discovering a new sailing destination.

Complete race results table from the 1995 event showing finish positions and point totals for all competing skippers and crew members.

Report on the 1995 Midwinters East regatta at St. Petersburg Yacht Club in Florida with 39 boats competing. Details include race results, notable performances, and highlights of the social events and awards ceremonies.

MacLean reports that Dick Jones (who served Thistlers for 26 years in race management) has won the prestigious Ted Tolson Race Management Award, recognizing his decades of service to the class.

Report on the 1995 Northern California District Championship with 8 boats competing. Dean Iwahashi won the championship with consistent performance, with crew Nancy Lee and Keith Tootle assisting.

Special commemorative section featuring historical photographs and articles from the Bagpipe archives, including vintage racing photos from the 1960s-1970s and various memorable moments in Thistle class history.

Collection of classified advertisements and listings from Thistle sailors offering boats, sails, parts, and services for sale or trade.