May-June 1977

Editorial discussing recent Thistle coverage in national yachting publications, including articles by John Rousmaniere about the class in Yachting magazine and Major Hall in Yacht Racing magazine. The editor announces that regatta reports should be written more regularly and provides guidelines for future article submissions.

A collection of letters from Thistle Class members addressing various topics including boat protection policies, class development concerns, and regatta event scheduling issues. Topics include protection from 'hot-shots' and class-hoppers, the need for long-term class growth, and event reporting procedures.

A notice from the Chief Measurer warning Thistle sailors that 'twings' (spinnaker control devices) are illegal under Chief Measurer's Ruling #26. The article clarifies the regulation and advises sailors to consult TCA's rules before making modifications to their boats.

Comprehensive report of the 1977 Thistle Mid-Winter Championships held at St. Petersburg Yacht Club in February-March. Dave Ullman sailing boat #3485 won decisively with superior tactics and weather awareness. The report covers all three divisions with detailed race narratives and includes championship standings. The event was held in generally cooperative winds ranging from 8-16 knots.

Technical analysis of Thistle mast design and rigging loads by Phil Bucher. The article examines the various forces acting on the mast and supporting rigging, provides tables of estimated loads on different components, and discusses the critical stress areas. Recommendations are made for maximum sizes on shrouds, halyards, and the forestay to ensure safe operation.

Announcement and information about the 32nd Thistle National Championship to be held at Houston Yacht Club August 13-19, 1977. Includes details about the host club's facilities, location, navigation instructions, and information about charters, crew availability, camping, and accommodations in the Houston area.

Official minutes of the Thistle Class Association Governing Board meeting held February 26, 1977 at St. Petersburg Yacht Club. Covers executive committee actions, financial planning, trademark discussions, regatta preparations, and various technical rule amendments and interpretations.

Continued expert roundtable discussion featuring experienced Thistle sailors addressing questions about downwind sailing technique, steering, planing, and balance. Participants share diverse approaches to maintaining boat speed and control in various wind and wave conditions.

Information about the 1977 Thistle National Championships including measurements, safety equipment requirements, and various logistical details. Includes specifications for items to be measured at the event and lists required safety equipment for all boats.

Article announcing Fontelieu Sails as a new sailmaker for the Thistle Class. The article describes the high-quality sails offered by Ted Fontelieu III, including specifications for mainsails, jibs, and spinnakers, with pricing and ordering information.

Report on the Red Chevron Regatta at Western Carolina Sailing Club, Anderson, South Carolina (May 14-15). John Davidson (#2970) won decisively, demonstrating strong sailing throughout the three-race event with various weather conditions. The article includes final race results and skipper standings.

Report on the first Annual Desert Regatta held at Tri-Cities Yacht Club, Richland, Washington (May 13-15). Marty Seelig (#2973) won the event. The article describes the good sailing conditions and includes race results showing Seelig's dominant performance over various competitors.

Brief report on the Harbortown Regatta race where Mike Pinter (#3526) won with two close races. The article includes the race results table showing the top finishers and notes the competitive and sunny conditions.

Report on the 8-Ball Regatta at Indianapolis Sailing Club where Howdy King won decisively. The article includes detailed race results and final standings showing King's strong performance across all races.

Report on the Spring Fling regatta at Lake Michigan, which hosted the 4th annual Lake Michigan District Thistle Fleet #149 event. Karen Larsen Neilson describes the weather conditions and includes race results for the event.

Report on the Southern California District Championships held at Coronado Yacht Club in San Diego. Dave Ullman dominated with strong performances across all races. The article includes detailed race descriptions and final standings showing Ullman's commanding lead.

Comprehensive classified section including boat listings for sale, sailmakers and equipment vendors, and various services for Thistle owners. Includes used boat sales with detailed specifications and prices.