February - April, 2026

President Holland encourages members to engage with their local fleets, lower-cost associate memberships, electronic Bagpipe subscriptions, and volunteer opportunities. He emphasizes that small contributions add up to support the Thistle Class Association.

Chief Measurer Hudson announces work on a Chief Measurer's Ruling for electronic OCS detection devices to be voted on at Nationals. He reports on new mast builder Allen Boat Works and notes custody of the Great Midwest/Beacon hull mold.

Secretary Duckworth announces new CLUBSPOT features for 2026 including monthly reminder emails for membership dues and confirmation emails for renewals. She lists contact procedures for various membership issues.

Editor Duckworth seeks articles and photos from members for publication in The Bagpipe. He emphasizes the importance of user-generated content and welcomes contributions on regattas, boat maintenance, and member achievements.

Comprehensive schedule of Thistle regattas from March through September 2026, including locations, dates, contact information, and 2025 winners for reference.

Collection of product advertisements and services for Thistle sailors, including custom hiking straps, boat covers, and spinnaker accessories from multiple vendors.

Announcement and details for the 2026 Midwinters East regatta in Pensacola, March 4-8, featuring information on registration, race sense event features, coaching sessions, and lodging options.

Detailed report of the 2025 SSA Oyster Roast regatta in Annapolis, describing racing conditions, winner Jon Duffett's team, and appreciation for race committee and host club. Includes complete race results table.

A racing rules scenario involving two boats approaching the starting line with an overlap. A leeward boat luffs and the windward boat makes contact with both the leeward boat and committee boat. The reader is asked to decide the protest case.

Update on Thistle Class boat molds: the McLaughlin/Northwest One Design molds have been relocated to dry storage with the Eugene fleet, while the Great Midwest/Beacon molds are kept on the East Coast. The committee encourages builders to complete a survey.

Comprehensive history of Eugene Yacht Club from its founding in 1940 through 2026, documenting the club's relocation, construction of facilities, development of traditions, hosting of major racing events, and establishment of the sail school.

The answer to Quiz 22 explains that boat W's protest is disallowed because L, as the leeward boat, has right-of-way throughout and is permitted to change course. Rule 17 does not apply to the scenario.

Announcement and invitation for the 2026 Thistle Nationals being held at Eugene Yacht Club, Oregon from July 27-31, with Women's Nationals on July 26. Emphasizes the Oregon adventure with activities like golf, hiking, and wine tours.

Travel guide offering suggestions for the drive to the 2026 Nationals in Eugene, Oregon, with themes including fly fishing, visiting state capitols, and national parks. Describes scenic routes via I-80/I-84 and alternative routes through central Oregon.