April/May 2018

The president discusses the symbiotic relationship between competitors and regattas using a predator-prey mathematics principle. He emphasizes the loss of the East Coast Fall Series event at Sayville and urges members to support regattas through participation.

A personal account of the exceptional hospitality and sense of community found at Thistle regattas, particularly at Midwinters West, the 2017 Nationals, and upcoming events in Tampa Bay. The author emphasizes how regatta hosts make visitors feel like they belong.

The author reflects on the Thistle class's 75-year evolution, from plywood boats with hand cranks to modern glass boats. He discusses an ongoing strategy project to ensure the class remains vibrant for the next 10-20 years while maintaining its core values.

A comprehensive calendar of Thistle regattas scheduled for 2018, from April through November, listing dates, locations, contact information, and 2017 winners for each event across all regions.

A technical guide covering rig tuning and sail trim, starting technique, mark rounding strategies, and boat handling fundamentals for competitive Thistle racing.

Classified section including a boat for sale, Rooke Sails advertisement for Thistle covers with various options and colors, and information about membership dues and the Growth and Promotion Fund.

Comprehensive update on the 2018 Thistle National Championships at Cedar Point Yacht Club in Westport, CT, including party details, housing information at Fairfield University, registration, childcare camps, and regatta merchandise.

Comprehensive race report from Midwinters West at Mission Bay Yacht Club in San Diego, February 1-4, 2018. Includes race narratives, discussion of fog affecting Thursday's races, and detailed results for both Presidents Division and Championship Fleet.

Match racing report from the Larry Klein Memorial Regatta held on Super Bowl Sunday at Mission Bay, featuring elimination races to determine finalists and competitive match racing with on-the-water judges. Samuel Ingham won the championship.

A practical guide for organizing regatta boat parts and fittings, describing the evolution of storage solutions from basic expansion to a two-part system using Stanley boxes, key ring carabiners, and film canisters for efficient organization.

Two constitutional amendment proposals from the TCA Executive Committee: one to standardize terminology for references to the Thistle Class Association, and another to allow flexibility in appointing separate Secretary and Treasurer roles.