June/July 1997

Editor Patty Lawrence highlights the many good things in this issue and the early Bagpipes printed, noting how the publication has evolved from monthly 8.5 x 14 inch paper format. She references Chris Klotz's Green Book rule changes and Don Dexter's Tech Talk on hiking straps, and discusses the upcoming Nationals update.

Allan Gowans announces a search for a site, host club, and willing participants for the TOUCAN DUET Regatta, a two-handed mixed gender event featuring spinnaker and non-spinnaker divisions. No site has yet been selected for this regatta.

Updates to the Thistle sailing calendar, including the East Coast Fall Series at Nyack, NY for September 13-14, and information about the New Castle Sailing Club's added regatta in June.

Two letters to the editor: James Medsker warns about station wagons towing Thistles, and Barbara Yapp Bradshaw thanks the Midwinters East instructors for a wonderful series of lessons on sailing fast and racing tactics.

Ron Schauble explains the critical nature of the follow-up process in recruiting new Thistle sailors, emphasizing the importance of fun, addressing doubts, and maintaining orderly progression through strategic contact and involvement.

The Chief Measurer and Executive Committee recommend two amendments to the official Thistle Class plans regarding anti-flutter tabs on the mainsail and jib, which would allow better control of leech flutter and improve sail longevity.

Charley Jett writes about Walt Bauer, who passed away in 1996 but promoted Thistle sailing extensively during his life. The article tells how Walt's legacy continues through Thrifty, a boat he helped find for enthusiastic new owners Cynthia and Julian Pace, who are actively sailing and promoting the class.

Photo section with captions capturing moments from Thistle sailing events, including Doug Laber's newest Thistle at MWE, Andy Russell with his green thumb, the Race Committee enjoying the weather, and Greg Fisher working with Tom Hubbell's boat.

A poetic exploration of sail trim and wind dynamics in sailing, using metaphorical language to describe the various rigging elements and their roles in shaping the sail in response to wind conditions.

Margaret McAllister humorously lists the top ten excuses for not attending the 1997 Nationals in San Diego, ranging from parole violations to trivial home maintenance tasks. The article includes information about the Nationals registration, fees, and available packages.

Chris Klotz, as Past President, discusses the Thistle Class Association's efforts to maintain active membership by making rules more user-friendly, including changes to the Green Book and clarifications about co-ownership, particularly regarding chartered boats and sail usage at Nationals.

A list of new TCA members organized by region, welcoming them to the Thistle Class Association.

Wynter Chauvin describes how a group of sailing enthusiasts in Nacogdoches, Texas discovered the Thistle Class and worked together to establish a new fleet. Through internet research and coordination, they purchased boats and are developing their fleet-building efforts with the goal of hosting regattas and introducing the class to their region.

Philip Ehlinger recounts an intense winter sailing experience on Lake Nockamixon in Pennsylvania during extremely cold and windy conditions. The article describes the crew's struggle against 60-knot winds, hypothermia risks, and near-disaster situations, ultimately demonstrating the resilience of the Thistle Class in extreme conditions.

An announcement about the first annual Thistle Class National Championship Series held in Toledo, Ohio in September 1947, with details about the schedule, facilities, and prize purses.

A summary of Thistle racing results from various regattas including Inter-Lake Regatta, South Shore Regatta (Vermilion), Sandusky Regatta, Cleveland Yacht Club Regatta, and Frostbite Sweepstakes at Toledo.

Joe Burcar presents a proposal for team racing at the 1997 National Championships in San Diego. The plan includes format details, elimination procedures, endorsements from notable sailors, and contact information for those interested in participating.

Ron Small proposes exploring four-boat team racing as a way to add excitement to Thistle sailing and offer new competitive opportunities. The article encourages fleet members to consider this alternative racing format despite the appeal of traditional fleet racing.

An announcement for the 1997 Thistle Women's Nationals at Coronado Yacht Club on August 2, with eligibility requirements, costs, available services, and details about a race training program and boat clearing center for interested participants.

Green Book rule amendments and clarifications covering co-ownership procedures, chartering policies, fleet regulations, and governance provisions for the Thistle Class.

A humorous newspaper article reprinted from the October 16, 1996 Lexington Herald about Bryan Hollingsworth, a Thistle sailor (Thistle 2767), and a wild high-speed chase he engaged in while driving a truck that was being chased by a motorist in a bathing suit.

Don Dexter provides detailed instructions for making padded, adjustable hiking straps for Thistle boats using foam materials, webbing, and basic sewing techniques. The article includes specific measurements, installation diagrams, and tips for different boat configurations.

John Mitchell reports on the Centerboard Regatta in Austin, Texas, where eleven Thistles competed over two days. Richard Hlista 3074 won with three bullets and strong performances from other skippers. Difficult weather conditions included a lightning storm and high winds, but the race committee managed to complete multiple races.

Harry Reich describes the 1997 South Atlantic Districts Regatta held in Birmingham, Alabama with sixteen boats competing in strong winds and challenging conditions. David Reich took first place with a commanding lead, while other skilled sailors finished in the top positions.

Fred Nagel recounts the experiences of Thistle sailors participating in the Coronado Yacht Club Small Boat Spring Regatta, highlighting surprises, close finishes, and the unexpected challenges of hosting an event that had not been held for several years.

Larry Smith reports on the Lake Pleasant Regatta in Arizona where eleven Thistles competed in variable wind conditions. Will Cummings 3679 won the event with strong finishes, while visiting California boats also performed well in the competitive regatta.

A report on the ninth annual March of Dimes benefit handicap regatta that drew 20 boats with 53 sailors competing in six different classes. The event was successful in raising funds while providing exciting competition and camaraderie among participants.

A comprehensive classified section featuring boats for sale, equipment listings, and miscellaneous items of interest to the Thistle sailing community, including various Thistle hulls, sails, and related equipment.