December/January 1998/99

President Lawrence discusses the strength of the Thistle Class and its opportunities for growth. She emphasizes the need to make youth sailing Thistles attractive and to encourage new sailors to join the class through dedicated volunteers and outreach efforts.

Schauble reflects on the off-season and its importance for boat maintenance and crew relationships. He encourages members to volunteer for various committee roles and activities to support the Thistle Class, emphasizing that involvement strengthens the fleet and attracts new members.

Hudson analyzes data from the Thistle Nationals to discuss the diversity of skipper backgrounds and the uniformity of boat equipment among top competitors. The article highlights that despite varied professional backgrounds, successful Thistlers have achieved consensus on tuning and equipment specifications.

Each year the Thistle Nationals presents awards to fleets that have increased their membership. The article details the award winners for percentage of increase and number of additional boats, recognizing the importance of growth in strengthening the class and supporting member services.

An extensive discussion from the List-serv about Rule 18.3 of the Racing Rules of Sailing (1997-2000), addressing a complex situation where port and starboard tack boats interact near marks. The article presents multiple interpretations and perspectives on how the rule applies in different scenarios.

A profile of Peter Flood, a long-time Thistle enthusiast who has been instrumental in promoting the class. Flood's passion for sailing and dedication to the Thistle Class is evident through his involvement as a boat dealer and his support for new sailors entering the class.

Details about the Coach-TCA 1999 program held from February 27 through March 5 at St. Petersburg Yacht Club in conjunction with Thistle Midwinters East. The program offers intensive coaching with top Thistle sailors and structured activities designed to improve sailing skills and boost enjoyment of the sport.

A preview of the 1999 Thistle Nationals to be held in Edenton, North Carolina (July 31-August 6). The article highlights the historic charm of Edenton, the quality sailing conditions on the Albemarle Sound, and the attractions and accommodations available for participants and their families.

Schedule and logistical information for the 1999 Midwinters East regatta held February 27 - March 5 at St. Petersburg Sailing Center in Florida. Details include race times, activities, housing information, and entry procedures.

A roundtable discussion with top-ten Nationals finishers covering team selection, including questions about how skippers assembled their crews and what they look for in crew selection. Contributors discuss the importance of team dynamics, experience, and having compatible sailing partners.

An in-depth interview-style article with top Nationals competitors about sailing techniques and strategies used during the championship. Topics include boat setup, trim techniques, wave handling, wind reading, and tactical approaches that contributed to their success.

Comprehensive statistical analysis of hull and boat specifications, rigging data, crew composition, and sail equipment used by top Nationals competitors. Tables document skipper/hull numbers, hull materials, weights, rigging configurations, crew demographics, and sail preferences.

Advertisement highlighting the benefits of purchasing Northwest One-Design built Thistles, emphasizing stiff hull lay-up, craftsmanship, rigging innovation, and superior customer service. Lists pricing and contact information for the builder.

A humorous account of how a Thistle was selected as a model for a Saks Fifth Avenue catalog photo shoot. The story follows the unexpected adventure of Ron and Marilyn sailing their Thistle while modeling for fashion photographers.

A survey questionnaire designed to gather input from Women's and Juniors' Nationals participants about race format preferences, courses, timing, trophies, boat provisions, crew composition rules, scoring systems, and other event details.

Report on the 1998 Lake Michigan District Championship Regatta held in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin on July 18-19. Steve Lavender won the event, defeating a strong fleet of sailors from across the district.

Report of the Mid America Thistle District Championship held in Tulsa, Oklahoma in June. Fifteen boats competed from Arkansas, Kansas, and Missouri in a regatta featuring good race management and excellent hosting by the Windycrest Sailing Club.

Report of the 19th Annual Delrippett Invitational regatta held October 24-25 at New Castle Sailing Club on the Delaware River. The regatta was part of the TCA East Coast Fall Series and provided both competitive sailing and social activities.

Report of the 35th annual Goetz Memorial Regatta hosted by Thistle Fleet #36 at Lake Hopatcong Yacht Club. Lloyd Kitchin III won the event with Elmer Richards and Luke Reasoner placing second and third respectively.

Report of the 36th Annual Old Goat Regatta at Lake Lanier. Bryce Dryden won the prestigious event which attracts top competitors from around the country and is considered the predecessor to the International Old Goat Regatta.

Account of the Mission Bay Invitational regatta held in San Diego in November. The regatta featured both ocean and bay racing with mixed conditions, and included social activities celebrating the Thistle Class community.

Report on the East Coast Fall Series event at Great South Bay at Sayville Yacht Club in September. Lloyd Kitchin III won the regatta, sailing with his sons Brian and Mike Goetz.

Classified listings for Thistle boats for sale, used equipment, and services. Includes boats in various conditions and price ranges, along with miscellaneous sailing equipment and merchandise.