March-April 1963

An article promoting the Thistle Class Association Handbook and its value to racing sailors. Includes excerpts about Thistle history and racing techniques from the handbook.

Report on the annual Mid-Winter Regatta at Los Angeles, February 23-24, with record turnout of 749 boats and 44 Thistles competing across various courses and weather conditions.

Gene Allen launched a brand new Schack-built 'Metamorphosis' Thistle (1390) on March 8. Two days later it emerged as winner of the Spring Gold Cup Regatta at Newport Harbor with 287 boats in 23 classes competing.

An examination of 'T.C.R. Syndrome'—a compulsive disorder affecting Thistle racers who become obsessed with competitive sailing at the expense of other interests and relationships.

Description of the Olympic Style Race Course used during summer 1961 at Ovieland Yacht Club on Lake Erie, explaining the eight-mark course design with equal distances and how boats are identified and course numbers assigned.

A humorous poem about a sailing mishap and adventure on the water, describing various sailing conditions and close calls with comic effect.

Comprehensive listing of Thistle regattas organized by region and month for the 1963 sailing season, including dates, locations, and contact information for event organizers.

Reprinted from Newport Harbor Fleet No. 88 THISTLEGRAM. Explores various recreational and practical uses for a Thistle sailboat beyond racing, including camping, fishing, and cruising.

A photo caption describing how telephoto lens photography can be deceptive, showing boats that appear to be colliding but are actually far apart.

Practical guidance on tuning a Thistle sailboat for competitive racing, covering boat setup, crew selection and coordination, and pre-race preparation.

A nostalgic account of early Thistle sailing history, emphasizing the superior seamanship and construction of the original boats compared to modern examples.

A brief note on successful racing tactics, emphasizing anticipation and planning ahead as key to winning races and faster sailing speed.

Discussion of the importance of skilled crew selection and coordination in Thistle racing, emphasizing the need for experienced sailors working together effectively.

Classified advertisements and listings for Thistle sailboats, equipment, parts, racing services, and related products and services for sailors.