October/November 1989

President Keran reflects on his four-year tenure as Bagpipe Editor and First VP, discussing the importance of membership diversity and leadership within the Thistle Class. He emphasizes the need for continued focus on growth and promotion to attract younger sailors.

The Chief Measurer reports on issues with fittings that extend the waterline length, such as lower pintles and projecting tabs on the transom. A proposed Chief Measurers Ruling addresses these concerns, detailing specific requirements for the position and extension of fittings in relation to the transom.

Jack Finefrock, the new VP of Growth and Promotion, highlights the successful Sailing World advertisement campaign and discusses plans for future fleet promotion. He notes the 1989 winner is Fleet 68 from Newport Beach, which grew from two to nine boats, and encourages other fleets to promote the class.

A comprehensive report of the 1989 Thistle National Championship Regatta held at Sayville Yacht Club in Long Island, New York, August 11-18, attended by 87 boats from across the country. The report details race conditions, results, and the festive atmosphere of the championship event with extensive activities and ceremonies.

Paula Mahan recounts her experience as a first-time skipper in Interdistrics, describing how she learned to steer, managed her crew, and overcame her initial hesitation to take on the skipper role with the support of her family.

Greg Fisher provides detailed technical instruction on tacking technique in heavy wind conditions, with photographic sequences demonstrating how Steve Callison, Karl Erickson, and Ernie Dieball execute an excellent heavy wind tack, including boat handling tips.

Report on the Governing Board meeting held on Saturday, August 12, 1989 at Sayville Yacht Club, covering officer reports, votes on amendments and business matters, including discussions on fleet issues and class initiatives.

Report of the Annual Meeting of the Thistle Class Association held on August 15, 1989 in Sayville, covering officer reports, nominations, votes on business matters, and election results for the upcoming year.

Listing of new members who have joined the Thistle Class Association across various regions, including the Atlantic Coast, Central, Delta, Florida, Great Lakes, and other areas.

Comprehensive race results from the 1989 National Championship Division showing all seven races and cumulative points for all competing boats and skippers, with photographs of women's and youth championship winners.

Complete race results table for the 1989 Nationals Presidents Division competition, showing all seven races and final point totals for all participating skippers and boats.

Report of the 1989 Thistle Great Lakes Championship held in Cleveland with 45 boats, featuring detailed race results, weather conditions, and performance highlights from the multi-day event at Cedar Point Yacht Club.

Report of the 1989 Thistle Atlantic Coast Championships held at Newport with 59 boats over a weekend, describing the course layout, race conditions, and performance of top competitors in this major regional regatta.

Report of the Southeastern Interdistrict Championship held at Blue Chevron on Lake Lanier in April with 33 boats, featuring discussion of race conditions, results, and winners, as well as anecdotes about the event's activities.

Report of the Lake Erie West District Regatta held June 24-25, 1989 at Jolly Roger Sailing Club with 24 boats, describing favorable racing conditions and race winners throughout the weekend.

Collection of classified listings for Thistle boats for sale, boat parts, and services, including boat listings from various locations, photocopying services, and addressing services offered by the Thistle Class Association.