May-June 1968

Cover image and announcement for the 23rd Thistle National Championships being held at Great South Bay, Sayville, Long Island. This special supplement issue provides coverage and guidance for the national championship event.

Kelley analyzes how the geographic center of Thistle fleet distribution has shifted over four years, moving northeastward from Cincinnati, Ohio toward the Pittsburgh area. He examines trends in fleet sizes and activity across different regions to determine the class's development.

Lanphier responds to a previous letter, discussing issues with the Cunningham holes proposal and crew composition. He addresses concerns about class publication quality and sailing standards for Dutchman skippers.

Comprehensive listing of fall regatta events scheduled across multiple Thistle regions including East Coast, Mid-South, Carolinas, Lake Erie, California, and Hawaii for September through December 1968.

Silk describes effective methods for loading and transporting a sailboat on a trailer, emphasizing the importance of proper padding and securing techniques to avoid damage and allow for easier boat handling.

Bailey offers technical arguments against adopting Cunningham holes for the Thistle class, noting that while they work on some boats, they represent an unnecessary complication for the fleet.

Wilson, a Class officer, argues against the Cunningham holes proposal despite acknowledging its technical merit. He contends that allowing this modification would create greater division among experienced and novice sailors and unnecessary complexity in sail management.

Mitchell provides detailed technical instructions for constructing and installing transom flaps on a Thistle, including materials needed, dimensions, and the benefits of this modification for boat handling and speed.

Continuation of technical discussion about Cunningham holes, explaining how they allow for luff tension adjustment and improve performance in various wind conditions.

Haupt provides comprehensive guidance for sailing small Thistles on inland ponds and lakes. He discusses special characteristics, wind patterns, equipment needs, local knowledge, and strategy for success in pond sailing, including tactics from small boat racing and lessons learned from experience.

Continuation of Haupt's comprehensive guide on pond sailing strategy, covering topics including equipment, local knowledge acquisition, the start line approach, luffing techniques, and wind management. Includes specific examples from races and practical tactics.

Final section of Haupt's pond sailing guide covering heels handling, the importance of understanding wind patterns, and specific race examples including success at the District Championship and inter-district races.

Description of the Sayville Yacht Club facilities, accommodations, dining options, and location information for Thistle sailors attending the National Championships.

Complete listing of trophy winners and placings for each division in the 1967 Thistle National Championship, showing fleet winners, keeper trophy recipients, and special awards.

Official notice of proposed amendments to Thistle Class Official Plans and Specifications to be voted on at the August 1968 Annual Meeting, including detailed commentary on Cunningham holes and jib furling device proposals.

Technical notes on a jib furling device including materials, construction details, and operational specifications for this alternative draft control mechanism.

Detailed guide to sailing conditions on Great South Bay for the Nationals, covering wind patterns, currents, tide effects, and weather characteristics throughout the racing day. Includes recommendations for boat setup and tactical approaches.

Scientific analysis of wind conditions at Sayville using Weather Bureau data from August 1966-1968. Shabuer examines wind frequency distributions and direction patterns to help sailors understand typical sailing conditions for the National Championship.

Continuation of wind analysis focusing on afternoon wind patterns, the Southwest wind behavior, and conclusions about prevailing wind conditions at Sayville with implications for racing strategy.

Report on the 1968 Camellia Cup Regatta held in Hawaii with Thistles competing in light to moderate wind conditions. Peter Nutting skippered his boat to victory in a series marked by competitive racing and varied wind patterns.

Report on races held at Keehi Lagoon, Hawaii where Glenn Clark's boats won multiple races in Pacific Cals series and inter-fleet competition against Kaneohe Thistles and other Pacific vessels.

Report on the Punchbowl Regatta at Dixie Sailing Club where Thistles competed as the largest single class with 82 boats, showcasing sharp sailing and competitive racing from top southern sailors.

Comprehensive classified advertisements section containing Thistle boat listings, marine equipment for sale, repair services, and various maritime products and services from vendors.