January-February, 1966

The Bagpipe establishes a new column devoted to Thistle Class Association news. Features information about recognized builders (Elliott's Boatworks, Clearwater; Jim Fillis, San Angelo; Clark Boats, Kent, Washington) and discusses fiberglass centerboard issues affecting fleet maintenance and boat standardization.

Reports on the excellent growth enjoyed by the Thistle Class over recent months. Features photographer Jim Hosmer's pictures of the sea, including photographer taking photos and the new Thistle dinghy. Announces the successful organization of several new fleets.

Administrative notice of publication deadlines for upcoming Bagpipe issues.

Technical article examining centerboard and rudder tolerances based on specifications established at the 1965 Governing Board meeting in St. Petersburg. Provides detailed measurement data showing that tighter tolerances could be applied to centerboards and rudders without negatively affecting workmanship or boat performance.

Continuation of an article about sailing to windward, referencing discussions by Neil Lockwood about boat trim and techniques for achieving good performance.

Collection of official announcements and notices including Thistle dues information, executive committee appointments, governing board meeting details, and corrections to previous meeting minutes. Also includes information on new fleet charters and upcoming events.

Announcement of the annual party of the New Jersey District, inviting all Thistlers in the area and surrounding regions to gather for a social event.

Administrative notice that a complete listing of Thistle Class regattas will be published once again this year, with requested submission deadline for regatta information.

Comprehensive article by Tom Wilson addressing criticism of the Thistle Class design philosophy. Discusses the debate between those favoring strict one-design rules versus controlled development, using the 20th Anniversary Regatta as a historical reference point. Argues that the Thistle's success comes from maintaining design consistency while allowing minor improvements, contrasting this with other one-design classes.

Personal essay describing how the Thistle serves as an ideal family racing boat. Williams shares his family's experience growing up with Thistle sailing, highlighting how the boat provides educational opportunities and family bonding through sailing and racing activities.

Poetic verse about the techniques and contemplative nature of tacking downwind in a Thistle, reflecting on the consistency of crew, seamanship, and sailing skills required to succeed.

First part of a detailed technical article on windward sailing techniques by Ned Lockwood. Covers boat speed optimization, wave navigation, and mental attitude toward achieving maximum speed when sailing to weather. Includes practical tips on minute tiller adjustments, heel changes, and proper mental approach for consistently fast windward performance.

Letter from Jim Lipscomb advocating for minimum weight requirements in Thistle racing. Discusses how raising the minimum weight would eliminate leading skippers from stripping boats and promote fairer competition. Includes Editor's Note providing context on weight requirements and historical data on boat weights from National Championships.

Results of a questionnaire conducted among boats competing in the 1965 Nationals at Milford. Presents data on boat construction materials, mast types, centerboard shapes, rudder configurations, and hull characteristics. Analyzes whether wooden or fiberglass hulls, and various equipment choices, correlate with racing performance or boat weight.

Article describing fleet management strategies used by Fleet 68 to maintain competitive level and promote active participation. Discusses winter seminars, early season racing series, and various motivational tactics including the establishment of the "Big Brother" system to encourage new sailors and competition within the fleet.

Feature article celebrating new Thistle fleets established in 1965. Covers several newly organized fleets across different regions including Portland, Willamette, Northeast Yacht Club, Niagara Frontier, Chagrin Lagoons, and others. Includes details about fleet formation, locations, founding members, and their early racing activities.

Announcement of Peter Bordes' entry into the One-of-a-Kind regatta sponsored by Yachting Magazine. Describes the event as featuring high-quality one-design racing, with Peter Bordes representing the Thistle Class in the competition.

Race report on the Eastern Fall Circuit, where Stubner won a series of regatta competitions across different locations. Details eight races held at various venues including Huntington, Sayville, Hoppatcong, Westport, Winthrop, and Walt Stubner's performance.

Race report of the Southern California Turkey Tussle regatta held in November 1965. Detailed account of offshore racing off the southwest coast with multiple competitors, highlighting Andy Littlejohn's winning performance and various wind and weather conditions encountered.

Continuation of Lockwood's windward sailing technique article, focusing on practical steps and methods for maintaining boat balance and speed. Covers specific techniques for tiller usage, jib adjustments, and wind changes.

Collection of classified advertisements for Thistle boats for sale, equipment listings, and professional services. Includes boat sales with various specifications and prices, marine equipment, sails, covers, and instructional materials.