April-May 1979

President Keinath reflects on the successful East and West Mid-Winter regattas, highlighting wins by Mark Gilliland and Dave Ullman. He discusses the continued sponsorship of the 720 turns AP system by the Class and emphasizes the need for organized competitive racing.

A reader responds to Henry Clements' photography article, offering personal experiences and technical advice about photographing sailboat racing. Topics include camera choices, film types, and positioning for optimal shots.

Results from the Mid-Winters regatta showing the silver winners in both the Championship and Commodore's divisions.

A comprehensive listing of new Thistle Class Association members organized by region, welcoming them to the fleet and providing their contact information.

Announcement of the 34th National Championship to be held at Tabor Academy in Marion, Massachusetts from August 18-24, 1979, with details about venue and highlights.

A whimsical recipe for Thistler happiness featuring the key ingredients of Tabor Academy's location, facilities, people, and sailing conditions at Buzzards Bay.

Comprehensive information about lodging, meals, entertainment, camping, and other facilities available at Tabor Academy for the 1979 Nationals.

Travel directions to Tabor Academy from Interstate 95, plus information about nearby airports, hotels, and charter boat arrangements for the Nationals.

Complete schedule of events for the 34th Thistle National Championship at Tabor Academy, from August 18-24, 1979.

Technical information about expected wind velocities, tides, water temperature, air temperature, and general sailing conditions at Tabor Academy in August.

Technical specifications and measurement details for boats competing in the 1979 Nationals, including measurements to be taken and official ruling references.

Information about bidding procedures for the 1981 Nationals to be held in the Great Lakes Region.

Lists of officials for Tabor Academy, regatta officers, national race committee members, and Thistle fleet officers for the 1979 Nationals.

Required safety equipment for each Thistle competing in the Nationals, including anchors, life jackets, throwable devices, signaling devices, hand bailers, and paddles.

Detailed account of the Mid-Winters West regatta at Mission Bay, featuring the triumph of Dave Ullman and the competitive racing conditions that made it a memorable event.

Detailed account of a newcomer's experiences purchasing and learning to sail a used Thistle, with practical insights about boat design, tuning, and sailing techniques developed through competitive sailing in various classes.

Continuation of newcomer's insights on Thistle sailing techniques, including mainsheet trim, Cunningham adjustments, and crew coordination for optimal performance.

Comprehensive listing of Thistle Class regattas scheduled throughout 1979, organized by month from March through November across multiple regions and locations.

Introduction to five amendment proposals for the Thistle Class Constitution to be voted on at the Annual Meeting in Marion, August 1979, covering junior membership, bow-eye design, third vice president position, and other constitutional changes.

Continued discussion of proposed amendments including third vice president for growth and promotion, twinlines proposal, and implications for Class governance and administration.

Press release about Seattle Thistle sailor Marty Stodl's promotion of Thistle sailing in the Pacific Northwest, and a new fleet organized in the Delaware River area.

Continuation of photography article with technical tips from John Rousmaniere, plus information about Acrillic Thistle covers, Dock Box retailer, and ARO Spar Company mast products.

Detailed explanations of proposed revisions to the Thistle Class Constitution, including modifications to official plans, by-laws, and specifications that are scheduled to be voted on.

Race report of the Third Annual Sturgeon Bay Fall Thistle Regatta, where Bruce Goldsmith defeated Andy Barnes to win the championship.

Race report of the Tangerine Bowl regatta featuring strong winds and competitive racing, with Evans taking the win and Persohn demonstrating great speed.

Race results from the Goetz Regatta at Lake Hopatcong, with Ed Barbehenn winning the event and demonstrating continued sailing ability.

Detailed account of the Mission Bay International regatta where Skip Kempff dominated the competition with three first-place finishes in challenging conditions.

Race report of the East Coast Fall Series where Liggett defeated defending champion Kitchin, with extensive race results showing various skippers' performances.

Report of the Spring Fling regatta where Alan Veenstra topped the field, with results and details about the competitive racing.

Comprehensive listing of classified advertisements for Thistle boats for sale, boat parts, sails, equipment, services, and related maritime products and services.