June/July 2001

Hudson discusses how the Thistle Class has developed traditions that enable it to thrive. He explores how District Championships, the Green Book, and National Championship trophies are evolving while maintaining the class's identity and encouraging participation.

Ron Smith discusses the proposal to allow construction of new wood Thistle hulls using modern adhesives like epoxy. He presents arguments both for and against the proposal, explains the difference between "hot-molded" and "cold-molded" construction methods, and provides technical context for the bylaws amendment proposal.

A profile of the New Castle Sailing Club on the Delaware River, founded in 1952 by Edward A. Taylor and friends. The club operates eight Thistles cooperatively, emphasizing safe sailing, instruction for new members, and spirited racing in challenging conditions with strong current and variable wind.

The Thistle Class proposes four bylaw amendments for vote at the 2001 Nationals: guidelines for new wood hull construction, executive committee composition changes, addition of whistle requirements, and increased buoyancy flotation minimums for both wooden and fiberglass boats for enhanced safety.

Krembel encourages women sailors and male boat owners to participate in the Women's Nationals regatta at Macatawa Bay, emphasizing the benefits of building steering confidence and team building. She references Janice Young's prior articles on women's growth in the Thistle class and proposes possible format changes to increase participation.

Dunn provides a detailed technical explanation of mast bend in Thistle dinghies, covering both lateral and fore/aft mast bend. He explains how diamonds, shrouds, and the mast step affect sail shape, and provides practical tuning advice for sailors.

Lettenmaier urges readers to review the amendment proposals and encourage their fleet members to vote, noting the importance of proxy votes from fleets unable to attend the Nationals meeting, particularly West Coast fleets.

Tom Hubble is recognized as the 2001 Darlene Clark Award winner for his exceptional efforts in promoting Thistle sailing through Coach TCA training programs. His formalized coaching has increased Midwinters East attendance from 41 boats in 1995 to 67 in 2001.

Helen and Gerry Larsen are honored with the Ted Tolson Award for their combined 30+ years of dedicated service on the St. Pete Yacht Club race committee supporting Thistle racing. The couple has worked various race committee positions and are recognized for their crucial role in maintaining Midwinters East's reputation.

Kitchin recounts the social activities and festivities surrounding the 2001 Midwinters East regatta in St. Petersburg, including shipwreck-themed costumes, coaching sessions, dining adventures, and highlights of 67 boats from throughout the U.S. participating in this popular event.

A detailed race-by-race account of the Midwinters East regatta held March 5-10, 2001 in St. Petersburg. The report covers six races with commentary from the co-skipping team of Barbehenn and Murphy, describing wind conditions, tactical decisions, and notable performances of various competitors.

Complete race results table for the 2001 Midwinters East regatta showing 67 boats, their skippers, crew, boat numbers, and individual race scores across six races with final totals.

Classified advertisements and marketplace listings for Thistle boats and equipment, including boats for sale (1240, 1603, 2151) and miscellaneous sailing equipment for sale by club members.