April-May 1962

Chief Measurer Dave Minton clarifies eligibility requirements for competing in Thistle National Championships and District eliminations, covering membership requirements, boat registration procedures, and family ownership provisions.

Notice requesting fleet secretaries to send in their fleet reports with updated membership information to help keep the Bagpipe mailing list current.

Notice requesting fleet captains to appoint publicity coordinators to help report fleet activities and events to the Bagpipe.

The National Secretary is requesting an old used graphotype for cutting address plates to help with mailing efficiency.

Article describing a sailing scene on Kennebago Mountain where a regatta is held in the buck-ground. Glen Clark is pictured with his crew getting ready for an upwind race, with no waves in this warm landlocked chunk of paradise.

Detailed ruling on a measurement protest concerning an alleged illegal centerboard on Thistle #1233. The Chief Measurer upheld an original protest decision and discusses the authority and procedures governing such measurement appeals.

The 1962 Thistle National Championships scoring system submitted by Pete Bordes is printed in this issue, which was submitted to the Governing Board and subsequently approved for use in the national championship.

News brief reporting that Thistle No. 1495 was first to cross the finish line at a lake regatta sponsored by the Catawba Yacht Club, sailed by Bill Calhoun and crewed by Dan Young.

Notice recommending an excellent writeup in ONE-DESIGN YACHTSMAN magazine about the Rabbit or Gate method of setting sails, with round table discussions on getting yacht courses, and getting your copies and having round table discussions with members of your fleet.

Detailed instructional article on preparing for a Thistle race start, covering wind analysis, timing practice, and tactical positioning to get a good start and early boat speed.

Comprehensive listing of Thistle Class regattas scheduled across the United States throughout 1962, organized by district and season with dates, locations, and contact information.

Round table discussion between experienced Thistle skippers (Bruce, Chuck, Reporter) covering sail design, construction, materials, and practical racing techniques for sails and jibs.

Racing rules scenario presenting a situation where two Thistles (A and B) interact during the starting sequence, asking readers to determine which boat violated which rule and make proper judgments.

Collection of letters from Thistle sailors and enthusiasts responding to previous articles and sharing their experiences with the class and sailing advice.

Comprehensive classified section featuring Thistle boats for sale, used and new, along with sails, equipment, boat covers, insurance, and other products and services related to Thistle sailing.