August/September 2009

The TCA President shares observations from attending multiple Thistle regattas throughout the year, highlighting successful practices and traditions that make events memorable. He identifies key elements contributing to regatta success: good racing, free housing, coaching, family activities, great parties, and community spirit.

The 3rd VP describes a personal experience that exemplifies how active promotion of the Thistle class at clubs attracts new participants. He advocates for ambassadors at all levels—fleet members, clubs, and leadership—to maintain visibility and grow the fleet.

Classified advertisements and product listings for Thistle-related goods and services, including boat covers, sails, hardware, insurance, apparel, and boat repair services.

Colorful narrative account of the 2009 Dixie Regatta in Atlanta with a Western/cowboy theme. Seventy teams competed in excellent wind conditions with entertaining social activities, awards, and competitions. Brad Russell won the regatta with consistent finishes.

Article about Fleet 61 in Seattle's use of the Kattack Race Analysis System with GPS units for analyzing racing tactics and coaching new sailors. Includes a detailed play-by-play account of a specific race using Kattack data to illustrate racing decisions.

Report on the Admiral Farragut Regatta held in Knoxville, Tennessee on May 2-3. Despite wet weather and economic challenges, eleven boats competed in shifty Saturday winds and lighter Sunday conditions. Vlasta Kunc won the regatta with strong performance throughout.

Report on the NCAL (Northern California) Thistle District Championships held June 6-7 at Scotts Flat Lake near Nevada City. The event featured challenging wind conditions including holes and gusts, with Gillum's team securing victory through consistent sailing and tactical awareness.

Account of the 2009 Carolinas District Championship held April 25-26 at Jordan Lake in Pittsboro, North Carolina. The regatta featured beautiful spring weather, shifty southwestern winds, and tight racing. Mark Gise pulled off a come-from-behind victory in the final race to secure the championship.

Business announcement about the formation of Dieball Sailing, a new independent sail loft based in Toledo, Ohio. After years working with major lofts, Skip Dieball has founded his own full-service sailing establishment focused on quality sailmaking and service.

Report on the Mid-America Districts held June 13-14 at Windycrest Sailing Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Twelve boats competed with three new owner-driver programs from the University of Kansas Sailing Team. Intense competition on Day 2 featured multiple lead changes and a close final race won by team "Firewalker."

Report on the 2009 Great Lakes Thistle Championship held at Crescent Sail Yacht Club on Lake St. Clair near Detroit. Despite initial light wind forecasts, excellent racing conditions developed with competitive sailing from experienced veterans and young competitors alike. Skip Dieball dominated with multiple race wins.

Personal account of attending Great Lakes Championship as a recent college graduate seeking racing opportunities. The author was welcomed warmly by the Thistle community through hospitality, boat arrangements, and camaraderie, exemplifying the class's strong social cohesion.

Comprehensive calendar listing Thistle regattas and events scheduled for August through November 2009, including Women's and Junior Nationals, district championships, invitational regattas, and sailing clinics across all regions.

Advice column addressing questions from Thistle sailors. A young sailor asks for advice on managing crew members with balance issues; Coach TCA provides encouragement and training suggestions.