December 2008/January 2009

Craig Smith announces a new mentorship program designed to help first-time skippers attend their first major Thistle regatta by pairing them with experienced mentors. The program addresses low turnout at national events by providing guidance on registration, housing, and event preparation.

Chris Pollak, Chief Measurer, reports on his continued work with the Measurement Committee on class issues including tack slugs, rudder profiles, mast steps, and spar specifications. He also reflects on the value of Bagpipe back issues as historical resources.

First Vice President Mike Gillum discusses his return to the Officer Ladder Rotation and his role coordinating the 2009 Master Calendar for Thistle regattas nationwide, soliciting fleet and district regatta information from regional leaders.

New Bagpipe Editor Kevin Arrow reflects on his first issue, introduces himself as a second-generation Thistle sailor from St. Louis with a personal history of family Thistle ownership, and expresses excitement about working on the publication.

Growth & Promotion VP Michael Poltorak encourages class members to make Thistle promotion a New Year's resolution. He outlines strategies for local fleet growth including mentoring, organizing social events, and engaging young sailors through university sailing programs.

Ron Sherry reports on the 14th Annual Larry Klein Memorial Regatta held May 26, 2008 at Crescent Sail Yacht Club in Grosse Pointe, Michigan. The regatta featured 30 mixed-class boats and is known for its fun atmosphere and emphasis on safety, honoring the memory of Larry Klein who died in a sailing accident.

Nolan Richards explains how the Thistle was selected as the primary standard for the U.S. Sailing Portsmouth Numbers handicapping system due to its wide geographic distribution, strong fleets, and competitive sailing. The Thistle's Portsmouth number was established at 83.

Various advertisements and classified listings for Thistle-related products and services including boat covers, hardware, repairs, sailing instruction, and class-related businesses.

Scott Latham recounts the multi-year restoration of wooden Thistle #1329 from 1959, built by Howdy King. He describes finding the boat in Florida, shipping it north, and the complex restoration process involving Michael Parramore, Che Hale, and Doug Laber, ultimately resulting in a competitive racing boat.

Fleet 79 hosted the 46th Annual Old Goat Regatta at Lake Lanier Sailing Club on September 6-7, 2008. The regatta featured 33 boats, quality awards from sponsors, and a convivial atmosphere with grilled food and socializing.

An article about boat floatation improvements for older D&M fiberglass Thistles. The author describes identifying inadequate floatation, and implementing solutions including airbags, foam replacements, and additional flotation to improve capsize safety.

Interview with high-performance coach Stephane Cazeault on fitness training specific to sailboat racing. He explains that strength training is more effective than endurance training, discusses nutrition strategies for long races, and addresses balance and fitness elements.

Humorous fictional account of Dan Reasoner's one-week experience with private fitness training at a health club. The entries document progressive physical deterioration and reluctant adjustment to exercise.

Report on Thistle Fleet 69's Naptown Regatta held September 27, 2008 at Indianapolis Sailing Club on Geist Reservoir. Nine boats competed in four races on Saturday and one on Sunday, with Tyler Andrews winning overall.

Compiled interviews with the top 10 finishers from the 2008 Pensacola Nationals where they explain crew selection, practice methods, pre-race preparation, starting strategy, tactical decisions, and lessons learned. Includes detailed technical information about boat setups and tuning.

Ron Schauble describes structural repairs for older Thistles, specifically addressing failures in thwart-to-tank attachment and mast stanchion fastening. He outlines the repair process using stainless bolts and backing plates.

Playboy-style interview with top Thistle sailors about other boats they race and why. Features Q&A with Ben Mercer, Paul Abdullah, Ted Lischer, and Brent Barbehenn discussing their motivations and experiences with multiple classes.

A brief letter from a Thistle sailor vacationing in St. Thomas, describing visits to the local yacht club, sailing, and enjoying island rum.