October/November 2000

Announcement of Scott McKay as the Principal Race Officer for the 2001 Midwinters West and Larry Klein Memorial Regatta. Scott brings over 35 years of racing experience and a proven track record as regatta organizer for major events.

President Paul Jordan reflects on the successful 2000 National Championships at Sayville, praising the venue's facilities and volunteer efforts. He emphasizes the importance of volunteerism within the Thistle Class and thanks those who contributed to making the Nationals a success.

Outgoing Chief Measurer Bruce McCutcheon reflects on his tenure and provides guidance on important issues for the class. He discusses the role of the Thistle list-serve versus the Bagpipe for official communication and cautions against delegating measurement responsibilities to the CM.

Third Vice President Kerry Nielan highlights growth achievements and awards. Fleet 61 in Seattle received the Growth and Promotion Award for adding five boats and a 27.7% increase. The column also recognizes Chris LaBorde for recruiting college sailors and proposes connections for women and juniors.

A lively account of the social activities and atmosphere at the 2000 Nationals at Sayville, from camping to parties and special events. The report celebrates the many ages of participants, the camping experience, beach launching traditions, and honors Honey Abramson's retirement after 40 years as Secretary-Treasurer.

Minutes from the TCA Governing Board meeting held on August 6, 2000 at Sayville. The board discussed amendments to class rules regarding transom height, electronic compasses, spinnaker twings, and aluminum tillers. New officers were nominated and a proposed bylaws change concerning wind shift rule abandonment was approved.

Minutes from the TCA Annual Meeting held on August 7, 2000 at Sayville Yacht Club. Officers reported on their activities, financial status showed receipts of $63,617.01. Four amendments were voted on (transom height approved, electronic compasses denied, spinnaker twings approved, aluminum tillers approved). New slate of officers and honorary officers were elected.

A biographical profile of Elmer Richards, a legendary Thistle sailor and class leader. The article covers his education, professional career as a senior partner in a major engineering firm, extensive involvement in Thistle administration, and remarkable sailing record, including his seventh appearance as National Race Committee Chairman.

Technical article on building a high-performance Thistle centerboard. Part 2 of a series, this article covers construction methods, materials (wood, fiberglass, lead), weight specifications, and finishing techniques for creating a superior board.

A detailed profile of Rochester Canoe Club's historic Thistle Fleet #46, tracing the club's roots back to 1882 and its evolution through various sailing classes. The article highlights the club's strong competitive record and vibrant community, including the recent success at the 2000 Nationals.

An editor's column honoring Tim Mortimore's contributions to the Bagpipe publication. The article profiles Tim's Thistle sailing background in Seattle, his role in producing the magazine through desktop publishing, and his dedication to the class.

Brief report on eight Thistles participating in the 13th annual New Castle Sailing Club charity regatta on the Delaware River in June. Thistlers Chris Annand and Richard Harrison finished third and fourth overall, and over $1000 was raised for the March of Dimes.

A letter from Bill Ross, Honorary Rear Commodore, thanking the Thistle Class for the honor and reflecting on the impact of the Lake Norman Yacht Club's winning the St. Petersburg Trophy at the Edenton Nationals.

A column recommending four sailing-related books for reading during non-sailing weather, including titles for both adults and younger sailors. Recommendations include Blood Knot by Sam Llewellyn, Windcatcher by Avi, The Wreck of the Zephyr by Chris Van Allsburg, and Sailboat Racing with Greg Fisher.

Report on the 2000 Youth Thistle National Championship held at Sayville Yacht Club where seven youth teams under 21 years old competed. Richard Thomas won the championship with only two points separating the top three finishers.

A first-person account of Susan Edwards' experience competing in the 2000 Women's National Championship at Sayville, where Stephanie Winchester won the title. The article profiles the winners and other competitors and celebrates women in Thistle racing.

A humorous narrative account of the President's Division racing at the 2000 Nationals. Mike McBride describes the fleet dynamics, his boat's struggles with the cut, and the competitive racing that culminated in Christopher Klotz's dominant performance.

A detailed sailing narrative from the perspective of Mark Makielski's crew position on Team King. The account covers all seven championship races at Sayville, describing wind conditions, course management, and the competitive battle that culminated in Mike Ingham's first-place finish.

Classified advertisements and marketplace listings for Thistle boats and sailing equipment. Includes listings for two used Thistles (boat #153 and #1886) and miscellaneous equipment including carbon fiber spinnaker poles, and custom half-models.