April/May 2019

Advertisements for Thistle-related products and services, including rigging equipment (JibMaster blocks and track systems), boat covers (Rooke Sails), and class information.

Hudson reflects on his attendance at the US Sailing National Sailing Programs Symposium in Jacksonville, Florida. He highlights the value of networking with other sailing organizations, discusses community sailing programs as growth tools, and emphasizes the importance of safety in sailing programs.

A personal narrative describing how a young sailor became involved with sailing through various organizations and opportunities, eventually becoming a Thistle racer and eventually Class President. The story emphasizes the importance of institutional support and mentorship in developing lifelong sailors.

Howell proposes that the easiest way to grow participation is to get existing inactive boats back on the race course and to better utilize boat charters and loans for crews. He argues that seeing active Thistles at local clubs is the best way to attract new sailors.

Kathleen W. Duckworth, age 90, of Stow, Ohio, passed away on January 24, 2019. She was a retired nurse, bridge player, golfer, and longtime member of the Thistle Class Association. Katie and her husband Ed were active in Thistle racing and attended Nationals across the country.

A promotional article describing the social events and activities planned for the 2019 Thistle Nationals in Sandpoint, Idaho, including evening gatherings, a contra dancing event, racing rules trivia contest, and kids' activities for families.

A comprehensive regatta calendar for the 2019 Thistle racing season, listing approximately 60 regattas across all regions from April through November, including location, contact information, and 2018 winners.

Comprehensive coverage of the 2019 Mid-Winters West regatta held January 24-27 at Mission Bay Yacht Club in San Diego. Multiple race-by-race recaps from Championship and President's Fleet divisions, with results tables and commentary on boat handling, strategy, and sailing conditions.

Coverage of the Larry Klein Memorial Match Racing held after the conclusion of Mid-Winters West. Sixteen boats competed in a qualifying fleet to select eight finalists. The races were generally predictable without close exciting finishes, but featured the usual pre-race drama at the start.

Miranda, a young skipper competing in her first regatta, shares her personal story of purchasing a Thistle and racing at Mid-Winters West. At 24, she was the only female skipper and won the Goldfarb Trophy for youngest skipper. She emphasizes the importance of getting time in the boat and the welcoming Thistle community.

Robin Bonner recounts her family's experience at Mid-Winters West, which involved careful planning to bring extended family members from the East Coast to San Diego. She describes how the crew rotated throughout the regatta to include family members new to Thistle racing, and shares memorable moments from the regatta.

Comprehensive coverage of the 2018 Lake Erie Fall Series, a multi-regatta circuit held on Lake Erie. Reports include the Dornin Memorial Regatta at Pymatuning Yacht Club, North Cape Blow Out, and results from multiple regattas including races at Atwood (Harvest Moon), Crescent Sail (Ice Breaker), Cleveland, and Johnson Memorial.

An appeal for information about modified Thistles that have been converted into steam-powered vessels. The editor recalls articles from 1994 and 1980 about such boats and invites readers to share their memories and information for a potential updated article.

An announcement of the 2019 Thistle Atlantic Coast Championship regatta being held June 8-9, 2019 at Tred Avon Yacht Club in Oxford, Maryland, with the Notice of Race available online.