May-June 1964

Editorial note about the photograph on the cover showing Art Glasier in True Love leading during the 1963 Southern California District Championship regatta at Long Beach Harbor, which will be sailed June 13-14.

A detailed account of the 35th Southern California Yachting Association's Mid-Winter Regatta held February 22-23, featuring Thistles competing in three races with variable wind conditions from Los Angeles area. Bob Coors ultimately won the regatta, with various fleet members placing in different divisions throughout the competition.

An article explaining the new wording on Article XII of the Thistle Class By-Laws regarding qualifications for competing in the National Championship, adopted at the recent Board of Governors meeting in St. Petersburg. It details the eligibility procedures, district elimination series requirements, and regional championships structure.

A comprehensive article discussing various initiatives for promoting Thistle Class racing and participation, including ideas from the Hoffman proposal for fleet expansion, Cowan Lake Fleet promotions involving monthly activities and competitions, and details on Huntington Fleet activities and programs.

Technical article providing detailed guidance on equipment modifications and rigging practices for Thistle Class boats, including spinnaker equipment, selfbailer modifications, and periscope bailer design changes to improve sailing performance and handling.

A brief announcement regarding new Board of Governors ruling requiring all Thistle racers to wear life saving equipment aboard during racing, effective in August, with details on approved cushion types that satisfy legal requirements.

A personal narrative account of the author's experience racing at the Lake Erie District Championships, describing challenging wind and weather conditions, boat handling difficulties, and the eventual rescue after their Thistle capsized, with lighthearted reflections on the experience.

Financial statement of the Thistle Class Association for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1963, showing total receipts of $11,981.86 and total disbursements of $11,808.53, with a net excess of receipts over disbursements of $173.33.

A detailed first-person account by the author describing how he capsized his Thistle twice in a single race at the St. Petersburg Midwinters regatta, including the circumstances of each capsize, how the boat was recovered, and reflections on the experience and what was learned about boat handling during challenging racing conditions.

Information about boat charter arrangements for skippers and others traveling to the National Championships in Cleveland, with charter coordinators named and details on how to inquire about vessel availability and costs.

Comprehensive listing of Thistle Class regatta schedules organized by region (Atlantic Coast, Great Lakes, and Pacific Coast), including event dates, locations, and contact information for entries throughout 1964.

A listing of new Thistle boats registered in the class, showing hull number, owner name, address, and location. Approximately 60 new registrations are documented in this section.

An announcement providing contact information for the 1964 Thistle Nationals to be held at Cleveland Yachting Club on August 17-21, with instructions to contact Joe Shrier for more information.

Practical advice on caring for a Thistle after capsize, including inspection of the mast and rigging, drying procedures, and preventing salt water damage to equipment and boat components.

A race report from the Mid-Winter Regatta at Houston Yacht Club on February 15-16, with Bill Willis of Concho Yacht Club winning first place, while other notable sailors like George Wise and Ge Ed Ory competed in challenging wind conditions.

A detailed report on Article XII of the Thistle Class Constitution regarding sanctioned events and championships, covering how different levels of championships are conducted, regional divisions for the National Championship, and other administrative procedures for racing events.

A detailed explanation from Paul R. Hohler about the spinnaker rigging system used on his Thistle, including how the spinnaker lines are laid out and managed to allow for single-handed or two-person spinnaker handling with minimal crew movement.

A report from Hawaii Fleet No. 76 describing the fleet's promotional activities emphasizing women sailors, recounting the annual Wahine Day regatta held in October at Kanoehe Bay, and highlighting the participation and camaraderie of fleet members.

A brief regatta report from the Fifth Invitational at Lake Hico near Jackson, Mississippi, where John Martin won the competition with results tabulated by boat skipper and placement.

A comprehensive classified section containing boat sales listings, equipment for sale, insurance information, and Thistle-related classified advertisements from various sellers across the country.