November-December 1965

Reports on the remarkable growth of the Thistle Class Association. One hundred new numbers have been issued in just seven months (April-November 1965), and 11 new Thistle fleets have been chartered. The article notes record growth with 2150 total numbers now issued.

Detailed minutes from the Governing Board meeting held at Milford Yacht Club on August 22, 1965, and the Annual Meeting held August 26, 1965. Covers discussions on trophies, fleet charters, sails policy, centerboards, Chief Measurer's reports, and financial matters.

Chief Measurer Dave Minton presents an update on sails policy and centerboard tolerances for the Thistle Class. Discusses the interpretation of sail regulations and indicates that the Governing Board has adopted a policy addressing sails, with no items of hardware, material, or fitting to be used for adjusting shape except those specifically shown in the Official Plans.

Technical specifications and installation instructions for a new spinnaker halyard fairlead designed to be simpler and more convenient than previous designs. Includes detailed sketches showing the installation method and positioning of the fairlead on the mast.

Feature article presenting profiles of the 1965 district champions for the Thistle Class across eight districts, including their sailing experiences, accomplishments, and philosophies on racing. Profiles include champions from New England, Delta, Michiana, Central Atlantic, Pacific Northwest, Lake Erie West, New Jersey, and Niagara Frontier districts.

A section containing announcements and notices including a back Bagpipe photocopying service, reminders about fleet reports due January 31, Houston Midwinters scheduled, Van Zandt sails advertisement, and various fleet news items from Lake Erie East and other districts.

Detailed account of the famous 1965 Thistle Nationals regatta at Milford, featuring chaotic weather conditions, starting line controversies, and dramatic racing. The race series was highlighted by disputes over which boats were over the starting line, resulting in 33 crews being called back before proper starts could be achieved.

Photo gallery page featuring action shots from the 1965 Thistle Nationals at Milford, including images of boats racing and photos with captions identifying specific boats and skippers.

Regatta report detailing the Lake Erie East Districts competition where Jim Miller with SPIRIT (1776) topped the standings. Reports on other top finishers and analyzes the competitive nature of the three-day, five-race championship format used by this district.

Brief regatta report on Lake Erie West Districts championship won by Ed Fracker, mentioning his victory and competitive standing.

Regatta report on the Huntington Fleet #35 Fall Invitational Regatta. Details the successful performance of Harry Weddendorf sailing Mock Turtle, who outpaced other competitive sailors in a three-race series.

Regatta report on the Fall Invitational Regatta held at the Cottage Park Yacht Club in Winthrop, Massachusetts. Describes how Dennis Posey won the event despite rescue operations in heavy seas and various weather challenges.

Regatta report on the Old Goat Regatta held at Lake Lanier, Georgia. Details the presentation of a live goat, affectionately named 'Norris A.', to the winner as part of the competition. Includes race results and boat standings.

Regatta report on the Heather Bowl competition at the Red Dragon Canoe Club in New Jersey, won by Ed Walsh. Describes competitive conditions with 31 boats participating in the three-race event.

Regatta report on the Naptown Regatta hosted by Indianapolis Fleet #89 in September. Details Tom Wilson's victory as editor and Bagpipe publisher, breaking a jinx, and describes the competitive racing and course setup.

Regatta report on the Pymatuning Yacht Club regatta near Edinboro, Pennsylvania. Describes Nils Dailey's performance in his DILLY DALLY (1399) and other competitive finishes in the four-race series.

Regatta report on the Cape May Open Regatta where two boats sailed by Walshes took first and fifth places. Describes the sailing conditions and competitive results of the 24-boat fleet.

Regatta report on the St. Louis Regatta where Jay Dorrin nosed out John Martin in close competition. Describes the challenging conditions and competitive finishes in the multiple races.

Regatta report on the Westport Invitational Regatta where Walt Stubner won. Describes competitive conditions and results of the Cedar Point Yacht Club hosted event.

Classified advertisements section featuring Thistle boat sales, insurance offerings, replacement parts, sails and rigging equipment, and various products and services for Thistle sailors and boat owners.