March-April 1964

An extensive Q&A interview with several sailmakers and designers covering topics including spinnaker construction, sail materials, design trends, draft and shape considerations, and the latest innovations in Thistle sail design over several years.

Ted Fontelieu of Westport Fleet 99 won the midwinters regatta sailing the GRAY GHOST. The report describes the five-race series held at St. Petersburg, Florida, with Fontelieu winning despite challenging conditions and protests.

During a race in strong winds, Jim Phelps' boat capsized and Marion Phelps fell overboard. The Vander-Gaag boat responded to the emergency, and despite not having life-saving gear readily available, successfully rescued Marion and helped both boats recover from the incident.

Continuation of the midwinters report describing the Thursday races and wind conditions, with detailed race finishes and commentary on the outcome.

Ralph Kelley from the Sacramento Fleet describes a homemade wind pennant designed to help sailors see their masthead better. The device is fabricated from piano wire and features an oversized design with acetate construction.

A calendar listing of scheduled Thistle Class regattas for 1964, including locations and dates across multiple regions.

Phil Robin submits a photo of an experimental double-reefed mainsail for the Thistle, where the boom reefing rig was applied twice with re-wrapping for additional area, creating approximately 90 square feet of sail.

Official minutes of the Thistle Class Association Governing Board meeting held February 3, 1964 in St. Petersburg, Florida, covering membership dues, boat tolerances, national championships, and various class business.

Schedule of upcoming Thistle events including championships and social functions, with instructions for submitting regatta information for publication.

Ev Harrell won the "Old Goat" regatta in wind and rain conditions at St. Petersburg, with results and commentary on the racing series.

A feature article about Ed Walsh and his family's extensive involvement in Thistle sailing, chronicling his racing history from the 1950s through early 1960s, his championship victories, and his influence on the Thistle Class.

Collection of classified advertisements offering Thistle boats, parts, sails, insurance services, and racing equipment for sale or wanted.