October-November 2003

Comprehensive coverage of the 94-boat 2003 Thistle Nationals held at Fort Walton Yacht Club in Fort Walton Beach, Florida in August. Weather challenges plagued the event with frequent thunderstorms requiring multiple postponements, but all seven championship races were eventually completed. Brent Barbehenn (3921) won the national championship with his crew Chris Murphy and Scott Lennox, while David Hudson (3947) won the President's Division.

Outgoing president Jack Finefrock reflects on his second term, highlighting strong Class growth and promotion efforts, praising executive committee and regional vice presidents. He notes prominent Thistlers advancing within US SAILING leadership and celebrates the Class's strong attendance at multiple regattas in 2003, including the 94-boat Nationals. He emphasizes the bond of togetherness that defines the Thistle Class community.

A touching story of how Hu Visscher's wife Emily surprised him by commissioning a complete restoration of his beloved wooden Thistle 596, which he had sailed since 1967 but had to retire due to water leaks. Master craftsman John Riddle spent two years restoring the boat to race-ready condition. The restored boat, renamed "2nd Chance," was christened at Lake Allatoona and immediately competed in the Dixie Regatta.

Outgoing Bagpipe editor Blair Dryden reflects on his term overseeing the publication with managing editor Nicole Finefrock and layout master Mary McNitt. He thanks his team, the printer in Seattle, and acknowledges the challenges of coordinating production across multiple states using email and instant messaging technology.

Official minutes from the Thistle Class Association annual meeting held August 6, 2003 at Fort Walton Yacht Club during the Nationals. Reports from class officers cover membership growth (1804 members, up 112 from last year), finances, charter ratifications/revocations, and elections for the new year with Brent Barbehenn elected as new president.

Heartwarming article celebrating the birth of five babies to Thistle sailing families at Rochester Canoe Club in 2003, including children to Eric and Judy Gesner, Tracy and Hank Sesselberg, Amy and John Gorton, Don and Stacy Stehle, and Sara and Chris Connelly. The article notes the multi-generational family participation in Thistle racing and how sailing brings families together.

Comprehensive technical account by master boat craftsman John Riddle of the complete restoration of Thistle 596, including hull inspection, structural repairs, veneer work, interior refurbishment, and exterior finishing. The process involved approximately 500 hours of work over two years, transforming the deteriorated wooden boat into race-ready condition with modern specifications and finishes.

Technical guide for measuring Thistle hulls according to class specifications. Detailed instructions cover all dimensions on the official measurement certificate including length, stem height, transom height, centerboard position, mast and jib measurements, beam, sheer height, rail width, and rocker curve measurements. Essential reference for boat owners and measurers.

Official results of the 2003 Thistle Nationals including championship division winner Brent Barbehenn (with Chris Murphy & Scott Lennox), President's division winner Richard Thoma (with Chris Granger & Loren Hoffman), and special trophy winners including the Pete Milne Memorial, David Valla Memorial for all-family boats, and various regional winners.

Comprehensive list of Class members who have donated sustaining memberships ($100+), contributing memberships ($50-$99), or thank you gifts (up to $49) to support the Thistle Class Association. Recognition of donors from all regions, with special mention of Fleet 12 from Hoover Sailing Club in Columbus, Ohio with 14 contributors.

Comprehensive listing of new members who joined the Thistle Class Association in 2003 across all regional fleets, including individual members and family memberships from districts spanning the Atlantic Coast to the Pacific Northwest.

Entertaining account of the social activities and recreational events at the 2003 Nationals including Women and Junior championships, boat measurement, beach volleyball, go-kart racing, DJ dancing, and beach activities. Celebrates the unique social culture of the Thistle Class and camaraderie among the 400+ attendees.

Tribute to Paul LoGerfo, a prominent member of Nyack Boat Club and Thistle Fleet 41 for 26 years, who passed away September 16, 2003 at age 64 after a four-month battle with cancer. LoGerfo was a respected surgeon and passionate sailor known for his generosity, mentorship, and consistent participation in racing.

Coverage of the Women and Junior National Championships held at the 2003 Nationals with 15 junior teams competing and 3 women's teams. Reports on the competitive racing and results with winners Barret Rhoads, Jesse Kitchin & Ashley Jerman in juniors and Micki Gramm, Terri Swift & Carol Reddaway in women's division.

Complete scoring tables for the 2003 Nationals Championship and President's divisions showing results for all seven races with final standings. Championship division winner Brent Barbehenn (3921) with 18 points; President's division winner Loren Hoffman (3796) with 22 points. Includes detailed breakdown of all 40-54 competing boats in each division.

Classified advertisements section featuring boats and boat equipment for sale including Boat #1577 priced at $750 (needing work), and Carbon Fiber Spinnaker Poles from Composite Concepts. Includes instructions for submitting ads.