August-September 1979

A letter addressing concerns about fuel shortages and their impact on Thistle sailing. The writer compares the fuel efficiency of VW Dasher wagons for towing Thistles and discusses optimal towing speeds for comfort and efficiency.

Announcement of the Bagpipe Photo Contest with thanks to participants. Details about contest rules, the limited number of entries received, and encouragement for more submissions in future contests.

The President's message discusses Dave Minton's passing and his legacy to the Class. It touches on the quota system for the 1979 Nationals and other governing board decisions affecting participation levels.

Announcement of the 1980 Mid-Winters regatta scheduled for March 1-6 at St. Petersburg Yacht Club.

Directory listing of Thistle sailors across multiple regions organized by fleet and geographic location, with their boat numbers and addresses.

A detailed account of a camping trip featuring Thistle sailing from Chicago to Mackinac Island. The article describes various lakes, boating experiences, camping sites, and sailing challenges encountered during the journey, including detailed narratives of racing and boat handling.

A memorial tribute to Dave Minton, a legendary figure in Thistle sailing who passed away in June 1979. The article documents his contributions to the Class from the middle 1940s as a competitive sailor through his leadership roles, and includes a formal Deed of Gift establishing the Minton Trophy in his honor.

A comprehensive technical article on the theory and practice of sailing Thistles without a rudder as a teaching tool. The article explains balance principles, steering techniques, and rules for rudderless sailing in three phases of learning and mastery.

A firsthand account of a dangerous incident at Super Sail VI regatta at Winnebka, Illinois. The article describes challenging weather conditions, failed race committee decisions, and a capsizing event that resulted in injuries, emphasizing the importance of the buddy safety system.

Information about the buddy safety system for Thistle sailors, explaining how to pair up with another boat to ensure safety and accountability during racing activities.

Announcement and descriptions of winners from the first Bagpipe photo contest, featuring five award-winning photographs including action shots, silhouettes, and spectacle day scenes from Thistle sailing.

A regatta report on the Bottoms Up Regatta, describing 21 Thistles racing on Lake Murray with details about racing conditions, course adjustments, and final standings including handicap adjustments.

A regatta report on the Berlin Yacht Club invitational regatta won by Paul Wood (1815), describing wind conditions, race results, and final standings. Includes technical details about wind shifts and crew performance.

A regatta report on the Florida Sailing State Championships, describing the performance of Thistle boats, wind conditions, and final race results with emphasis on fleet behavior and standing changes.

A race report on the Dixie Regatta featuring Greg Fisher of Columbus, Ohio. The article describes racing conditions, competitors, and final standings with detailed race results.

A race report on the SE Spring Series with results showing Loy Vaughan's victory and detailed standings for the five races, describing wind conditions and course challenges.

A regatta report on the South Atlantic Thistle Fleet 156 and Fleet 159 district races, describing the winning performance of Ingram with multiple fleet entries and race results.

A race report on the Eight-Ball Regatta at Geist Reservoir, Indianapolis, describing wind conditions and final race results with detailed standings.

Editor's correction to the SE Interdistricts table from a previous Bagpipe issue, listing the corrected sailor names and their corresponding boat numbers.

A race report on the Southern California District Championship won by Skip Kempff, describing challenging sailing conditions and race details.

A regatta report on the Alum Creek Spring Series describing the racing conditions and top performances including an overview of trophy presentations.

A safety warning about fiberglass resin catalyst (MEKP) used in boat repairs, explaining the dangers to eyes and proper precautions for handling.

Classified advertisements and boat listings for sale by Thistle sailors, including boat for-sale listings and miscellaneous equipment offered.