December 2018/January 2019

President Hudson reflects on the three pillars of the Thistle Class: the builder (Doug Laber), the secretary/treasurer (transitioning from Craig Smith to Joy Martin), and the members. He emphasizes how each pillar is essential to the class's strength and invites members to serve the association.

Hubbell encourages participation in Midwinters East coaching program (Coach TCA) and promotes the 2019 Nationals in Sandpoint, Idaho. He discusses the coaching program's history and highlights past coaches' subsequent successes, noting the value of traveling to Nationals with family.

Duckworth introduces Lake Pend Orelle near Sandpoint, Idaho, the venue for the 2019 Thistle Nationals. He describes it as a beautiful 148-square-mile lake in Northern Idaho with a welcoming atmosphere and abundant recreational opportunities for sailors and their families.

Howell discusses the shared values that define the Thistle Class community: honesty, trust, compassion, generosity, and respect. He provides examples from class members demonstrating these values and emphasizes how they contribute to the family-friendly culture that supports long-term growth.

Annual calendar of Thistle Class events for 2019, including Midwinters West, Midwinters East, regional regattas, district championships, and the National Championship in Sandpoint, Idaho in July.

Obituary of Cecil Lee Brooks, a longtime Thistle sailor who raced in the Delta District from 1952-1973, placed 2nd in Delta Districts in 1959 and 1961, and was a Thistle boat dealer. Brooks served in WWII, worked in the oil industry, and was known for his knowledge, ingenuity, and passion for sailing.

Report on the 20th annual Lumberjack Regatta held on Tupper Lake with 17 boats and favorable conditions. Dave Hansen won first place, Aaron Holland second, and Chris Wilson third. Includes race results table and tribute to Elmer Richards' 20 years of creating memorable regatta mementos.

Ingham provides detailed analysis of sailing Thistles in significant Pacific Ocean swells during Midwinters West in San Diego. He explains the different effects of swells on port and starboard tacks, apparent wind changes, and effective techniques for maintaining boat control and speed in challenging conditions.

Brust describes the benefits of using a jiffy reef system on Thistles for older sailors and in higher wind conditions. He explains the installation and operation of the system, demonstrating how it enables safe, comfortable sailing in winds up to 25 knots while maintaining boat trim.

Reddaway reports on Lake Lanier Sailing Club's Old Goat Regatta, which grew to 32 boats by emphasizing family-friendly atmosphere, junior participation, and promotion efforts. The regatta featured excellent hospitality, live entertainment, and strong junior participation with 14 young sailors competing.

Ingham interviews Brad Russell, winner of the 2018 Thistle National Championship held at Cedar Point Yacht Club in Westport, Connecticut. Russell discusses his team, boat setup, sails, racing conditions, strategy, and various tuning techniques that contributed to his consistent performance throughout the regatta.

Report on the annual Blue Crab Regatta held over Labor Day weekend at Severn Sailing Association in Annapolis. The regatta honors long-time member Don Moore and features perpetual trophies. Charlie and Cairn Krafft won first place, with five races completed over the weekend in variable conditions.

Report on the 44th Championship of Champions Regatta held at Atlanta Yacht Club in October 2018. Bill Draheim and Rod Favela won in the Y-Flyer, with Draheim becoming the sixth two-time winner. Includes details on conditions, racing strategies, and the competitive field of national champions.

Perry presents a racing rules quiz scenario involving two boats at the start line with an overlap and tacking maneuver. The article includes the quiz question and a detailed explanation of the relevant rules and the proper decision regarding right-of-way and penalties.

Product advertisements and listings for Thistle-related equipment and services including Rooke Sails boat covers, Jibmaster jibsheet cleats, and information about the Growth and Promotion Fund matching challenge.