August-September 2003

The Dixie Regatta at Atlanta Yacht Club transformed the venue into an Australian Outback theme with 48 Thistle boats competing over the Memorial Day weekend. The event featured junior races, tribal challenges, and a flawless third race victory by Will Stout over seven other tight contenders. Both race conditions and social festivities were noted as particularly well-organized despite unusually low water levels.

President Finefrock reports encouraging growth in Thistle sailing across multiple regions, with new fleets forming and strong junior participation. He highlights efforts by fleet leaders to develop new members, emphasizing that the class's health depends on individual member contributions to recruitment and development.

The editors provide overview of issue highlights including coverage of major regattas (Dixie, 8-Ball, Atlantic Coast and Great Lakes Championships) and note the upcoming 2004 Nationals in Michigan City. They discuss the different formats used in these regattas and solicit regatta organizer input for the 2004 schedule.

Third Vice President Lischer discusses the benefits of involving college-age sailors in Thistle racing, describing how University of Kansas students energize fleet participation and become long-term competitors. He encourages all fleets to recruit nearby college sailing clubs for mutual benefit and camaraderie.

The 8-Ball regatta in Indianapolis featured past National champion Bruce King winning with four bullets in eight races. With 37 boats and varied wind conditions, the regatta served as preparation for larger events. The article details race conditions and highlights several strong performers, with results showing diverse geographic participation.

Written in the voice of a maritime ghost, this humorous regatta report covers the LIS-NE Districts held in Boston Harbor with 12 Thistle teams braving challenging nor'easter conditions. Dave Foster of Westport won the regatta with consistent sailing through five races that emphasized boat handling and current awareness.

The first Lake Michigan Districts were held at Corinthian Yacht Club in Chicago on June 21-22 with thirteen boats from six states. Kevin Arrow won the district championship with consistent boat handling and strategic sailing. The regatta showcased the renovated venue and honored deceased competitor Dave Valla.

Just two weeks before the Nationals, 22 Thistle teams competed in the Great Lakes Championship at Michigan City, Indiana - next year's Nationals host venue. The five-race series featured challenging conditions ranging 5-15 knots with frequent lead changes. Mike Ingham won first place, with Blair Dryden placing second and Bryce Dryden third.

An obituary for Bradford McFadden, Jr. (1940-2003), a 40-year member of Atlanta Yacht Club who became a formidable competitor in Thistles after switching from Snipes in the early 1970s. Brad was known for his generosity to the club, winning the AYC Championship 10 times, and serving in numerous leadership roles, including as an Olympic volunteer.

Classified advertisements and marketplace listings including sailmakers (North and Quantum), boat covers, centerboard and rudder bags, spinnaker turtles, boat parts, and complete boat listings. Sellers from across the country offer equipment for sale, including refurbished Thistles and specialized sailing gear.

The Atlantic Coast Championship was held in Annapolis, Maryland on July 12-13 with five competitive races in challenging conditions featuring strong northerly and westerly winds with significant chop. Charlie Kreitler won the championship with consistent finishes, followed by Blair Dryden and Jack Finefrock. The event featured excellent hospitality and a Friday sailing seminar by Greg Fisher.