Winter 1971

The Chief Measurer addresses questions about flotation in wooden and glass Thistles. Miller explains the flotation requirements and proposes methods for installing positive buoyancy using Styrofoam or sealed polyethylene tubes.

Letters from readers discussing weight measurement tolerances, scale accuracy, rule specifications, and proposed amendments to Thistle Class specifications. Includes commentary on buoyancy, flotation, and boat construction standards.

An advice column answering sailing questions about weather prediction, wind direction reading, and starting strategy. Multiple sailing experts contribute tips for reading wind and conditions.

Report of the Thistle Class Association Governing Board meeting covering R&D growth, boat construction standards, mast program, safety initiatives, and membership financial status.

Report of the 25th Annual Meeting of the Thistle Class Association covering officer elections, charter approvals, financial matters, and class policy discussions.

Coverage of the Mid-Winters Thistle Championship regatta at St. Petersburg Yacht Club with detailed schedule of events, race information, and championship details for the 1971 event.

Comprehensive analysis of the top Nationals boats from 1970, examining boat construction, sail controls, crews, and the factors that make certain Thistles competitive. Includes detailed specifications and performance data.

A roundtable discussion among top Thistle skippers about wind reading, sailing tactics, and race strategy. Includes perspectives from Dick Stearns, Kent Foster, Ted Fontelieu, Jim Miller, Bob White, Pete Barrett, and others on compass use and starting strategy.

Practical guide for adding required positive buoyancy to Thistle boats for the 1971 Mid-Winters competition. Provides detailed instructions for installing Styrofoam in wood and fiberglass boats with specific materials and tools needed.

Report on the ongoing Thistle Class mast development program to find the ideal aluminum mast design. Discusses the history of mast studies, prototype testing, and current efforts to develop new mast designs with improved performance characteristics.

Biographical article celebrating Norris A. Sinclair at age 75, tracing his life and sailing career with Thistles spanning decades. Documents his pioneering role in the Thistle class and his continued participation in Old Goat regattas.

Report of the Old Goat Regatta at Lake Lanier, documenting the record turnout of 58 Thistles from six southeastern states. Details first-place finishes and discusses the history of the regatta's growth.

Report of the Thanksgiving Day Wishbone Regatta on Lake Michigan, where Kent Foster narrowly won despite uncertain racing conditions and an unfinished third race.

Report of the Indianapolis Thistle Nautical Regatta at Geist Reservoir where Marlin Abramson won the event in wet, windy conditions with dry clothes, happy hour and dancing following.

Report of the Birmingham Sailing Club's Great Pumpkin Regatta held in October with challenging, variable wind conditions throughout the races.

Report of Hoover Thistle Fleet's second annual regatta at Reservoir, Columbus, Ohio with detailed race results and commentary on winning tactics.

Brief report of Kenosha, Wisconsin Thistle regatta with top finishers from Racine and Waukegan fleets listed.

Report of Palm Leis' winning effort in the Ivy Club Broken Crank Regatta on Lake Peoria, including race results and post-race festivities.

Collection of classified advertisements and marketplace listings for Thistle boats, equipment, sails, and services from sailmakers and dealers across North America.