November-December, 1968

A new column introducing The Bagpipe's "Skippers' Meeting" to provide news, opinions, and discussion forum for class members. The inaugural column addresses participation in the class and discusses the 1968 Nationals questionnaire analysis regarding boat statistics and wind velocity limits.

Biographical article about 1968 National Champion Dennis Clark, a 17-year-old sailor from the Pacific Northwest in his second Nationals. The article covers his introduction to sailing, his progression through local and national competitions, and his path to becoming the current National Champion.

Technical article by the 1968 National Champion on heavy air sailing techniques, covering essential equipment preparation, boat handling adjustments, and practical tips for sailing Thistles in strong wind conditions including rig setup and crew positioning.

Announcement of the Winter Thistle Championship with eligibility requirements, regatta officers, rules, and trophies for the St. Petersburg regatta scheduled for February 16-20, 1969.

Detailed event program and schedule for the 1969 Thistle Mid-Winter Championship held in St. Petersburg, Florida from February 16-20, 1969. Includes registration details, daily race schedules, social activities, lodging information, and equipment requirements.

Statistical analysis of the 1968 National Championships examining boat construction characteristics, hull materials, mast construction, weights, and performance data. Includes comparative tables of wooden versus fiberglass boats, weight statistics by finish position, and technical trends in Thistle boat design.

Fleet news section featuring reports from two major Thistle fleets: Lake Couchiching (Fleet 138, the newest fleet) and Boston Harbor (Fleet 22, one of the oldest fleets), describing their activities, membership growth, racing organization, and sailing conditions.

Brief regatta reports and announcements including Cedar Point races where Tom Barnard won second place, along with notes on Thistle activities throughout the racing season including various regatta standings and notable achievements.

Race report of the Lake Erie West Districts regatta held at Sandusky Bay, Ohio, where red boats dominated the competition with Ficks finishing first, Fracker second, and Berry third. The article describes variable wind conditions, tactical competition, and performance of leading boats.

Race report from the Lake Michigan Districts regatta in Peoria, Illinois, where Herb Whittall won despite challenging windy conditions. The article describes various technical challenges, boat failures, and competitive struggles in the difficult sailing conditions.

Race report from the Cowan Lake Invitational where Rod Glover won, with detailed account of the first race Mark Gilliland's performance and the competitive nature of the multi-race event.

Race report announcing Don Heisner's return to Thistle competition after a two-year hiatus, resulting in a victory at the Mentor Harbor regatta. The article notes his previous success and competitive performance.

Race report from the Cape May Harbor Thistle Regatta where James Lipscomb chalked up a second victory with strong wind conditions in all three races that tested boat handling abilities.

Race report from the Michianna regatta held at Eagle Lake Yacht Club where Dick Nelson won the overall competition. The article describes favorable wind conditions and leading boat performance in three races.

Race report from the Huntington Invitational Fall Regatta where Class President Tom Wilson won the overall competition with a strong performance across all races and smart tactical sailing.

Technical article proposing a new spade-type rudder design for Thistles to improve control in various sailing conditions. The author describes the design evolution, testing results, and advantages over current rudder designs.

Social feature article introducing Honey Abramson, the Secretary-Treasurer of the Thistle Class, with a photograph highlighting her role in class correspondence and communications.

Race report from the Winnetka Yacht Club Regatta where Rod Glover won a competitive series featuring consistent performances by top sailors including Herb Whittall and Marlin Abramson. The article describes racing tactics and finishing positions.

Race report from the Naptown races at Indianapolis where Ned Lockwood won in variable weather conditions with multiple divisions of races. The article describes sailing tactics, wind shifts, and competitive performance across three races.

Collection of classified advertisements and boat listings for Thistle sales, parts, and services including used boats, equipment, boat covers, sails, and related maritime products and services.