October-November, 1978

Editor Art Molitor introduces the October-November 1978 issue, noting the special nature of publishing the Nationals issue. He thanks Jack Rupert, Ike Ganyard, and Jim Irwin for their organizational efforts in hosting the Nationals at Cleveland. The issue also acknowledges Linda Douglas' contributions as the official Bagpipe scribe.

President Gaenzle reflects on his term, discussing the Thistle Class's growth stagnation and the need for promotional programs. He addresses D&M trademark issues, the importance of fleet secretaries, and ongoing initiatives like the Yearbook publication on alternate years and proposals for new membership classes.

Linda Douglas provides a comprehensive report on the 1978 National Championship at Cleveland Yacht Club. Andy Barnes (3437) won the championship by a narrow margin, defeating champ Glover and other competitors through strong performance across all races. The article details the competitive challenges, key moments, and personal achievements throughout the week-long competition.

Detailed race-by-race breakdown of the Championship Division at the 1978 Nationals, including standings after each race. The results table shows final positions for all 40 competitors across 7 races, with Andy Barnes maintaining his lead throughout.

Listing of trophy winners for each of the seven races at the 1978 Nationals, organized by Division I and II. Includes the names of winners and skippers, as well as special trophies like the Boston, Raceline, and Douglas & McLeod trophies.

Official awards listing for the top finishers and special categories at the 1978 Nationals, including Championship and President's Division winners with crew names and trophy descriptions.

Listing of special trophies and awards given at the 1978 Nationals for various categories including service, rookie achievement, age groups, distance sailing, and first-time participation.

Official minutes from the Governing Board meeting held at Cleveland Yacht Club on August 12, 1978. Discusses officer reports, D&M trademark certification efforts, centerboard measurement rules, fleet charters, and various Class improvements and policy changes.

Minutes from the Annual Meeting of the Thistle Class Association held in Cleveland on August 16, 1978. Covers officer reports, committee reports on growth and development, amendments voting, and announcements regarding the 1981 Nationals bid.

J. Stormer describes Fleet 119's successful open-house event designed to attract new members and promote the Thistle Class. The event featured two Thistle films and displays of equipment, with approximately 50 guests attending. Stormer reflects on the importance of fleet-level recruitment efforts and publicity for the Class.

Tom Keinath presents an analysis of the 1977 IYRU decision to adopt the Percentage Alternative Penalty system for world and continental championships. The article surveys Thistle skippers on their preferences between the 720° Turns Alternative Penalty and the 20% Alternative Penalty, presenting survey results and skipper opinions on risk-taking, rule-breaking, equity, and penalty severity.

Report on the California Districts regatta held in the Highland Fling area, featuring Pete Hale and his impressive performance. The article includes race results, detailed race analysis, and notes on skipper performances and tactics throughout the weekend.

Brief report on race results from a regatta at ISI Rob Boy, listing skipper standings and final positions.

Fuller Moore reports on the Lake Erie West District Championship, where Greg Fisher prevailed in strong weather and challenging conditions. Details race outcomes and skipper performances through the series.

Robert Duncan reports on the Cowan Lake regatta where Mark Gilliland dominated the competition with excellent sailing across all races. Article includes detailed race analysis and skipper standings.

Bruce McCutcheon reports on the Garden State Districts regatta held on July 8-9 in New Jersey. Kitchin prevailed despite challenging conditions, with detailed race breakdowns and skipper standings.

Peter Arts reports on the 1978 Canacanoe regatta hosted by Canandaigua Yacht Club. Larry Klein and Thistle 1111 dominated the competition with four first-place finishes and third overall in fleet standings.

Mark Finley reports on the Delta District Championship regatta held in July at Bridgeport Landing Yacht Club. David Powell won the championship with strong performances, and the article includes detailed analysis of wind conditions and skipper performances.

T.K. Lowry reports on the Michiana District Championship held at Crescent Sail Yacht Club in July. Larry Klein sailed his newcomer, Ed Palm, to victory over other seasoned competitors. The article details multiple races and skipper performances throughout the weekend.

Bob Thomas reports on the Junior Championship held at Mission Bay Yacht Club in July 1978. Randy Smith won the regatta handily despite challenging conditions, with results listed and notes on competitor performances.

Walker Petroff reports on the Bottoms Up Regatta at Lake Murray Sailing Club in Columbia, South Carolina. Brent McKenzie dominated the competition with consistent finishes and strong boat handling.

Dr. Stormer discusses the hazards posed by lightning strikes to small sailboats with ungrounded rigging. He requests information about lightning incidents involving Thistles to build a database and provide guidance for safer boating practices.

Comprehensive classified advertisements section featuring Thistle sailboat sales and rentals, equipment for sale, services, and various nautical products. Includes listings from sailmakers, boat builders, insurance providers, and other sailing-related vendors.