April/May 1985

The president reflects on the success of the Mid-Winter regattas held in both East and West, highlighting the strong organization, quality competition, and excellent social activities. He encourages more sailors to participate by attending and sharing their positive experiences.

The Growth and Promotion director discusses efforts to increase participation in Nationals and changes to eligibility rules. She announces Junior Nationals being held the weekend before the main Nationals and discusses age rule interpretations between TCA and USYRU.

The Chief Measurer addresses technical specifications for Thistle sails, including interpretation of sailcloth reinforcement at mainsail corners, investigation of water leaks in bow tanks, and clarification on prohibited use of mahogany plywood in centerboard trunks.

Editorial pieces discussing the growth and challenges of one-design dingy racing, barriers to learning the sport, and recommendations for attracting newcomers. Includes discussion of the Thistle class's efforts to buck declining one-design trends.

A comprehensive technical article on hull preparation and maintenance for racing Thistles, covering topics including hull stiffness, fiberglass tube stiffeners, keel attachment, grating joints, mast positioning, sail care, and various maintenance techniques to achieve optimal performance.

Report on the Fourteenth Annual Thistle Mid-Winters West Regatta held in January 1985 at Mission Bay Yacht Club, with Greg Fisher winning and other top competitors including Larry Klein and Mark Reynolds participating.

Complete race results and final standings for the 1985 Thistle Mid-Winters West Championship Division and Commodore Division competitions.

Comprehensive calendar of scheduled Thistle regattas throughout 1985 organized by month from April through October, listing locations, dates, and contact information for organizers.

Announcement and promotional material for the 1985 Thistle Nationals and Junior Nationals championships to be held at North Cape Yacht Club, August 10-16, 1985.

Details about the inaugural Junior Nationals event at North Cape Yacht Club, established to encourage junior sailor participation and provide qualification opportunity for the main Nationals championship.

Detailed day-by-day schedule of events for the 40th Thistle National Championship, including registration, races, meals, social activities, and evening programs from August 10-16, 1985.

Technical specifications for Thistle boat measurement at Nationals, detailing what will be measured (sails, poles, boom, centerboard, J dimension), weight requirements, and equipment verification procedures.

Listing of new members joining the Thistle Class from various regions across North America, organized by district and geographic area.

Report on the 29th Annual Heatherbowl and Costume Party regatta held at Red Dragon Canoe Club's Thistle Fleet, featuring unusual traditions including costume races and creative competitive elements.

Race report from the Southern California Midwinters event held in San Diego in February, where skipper Bruce Gosse dominated the competition with strong finishes.

Report on the annual Hospitality Regatta held in Jackson, Mississippi, which is a unique invitational event allowing various boat types. Describes weather conditions, racing tactics, and the ultimate victory of Larry Wagner with analysis of key competitive moments.

Race report from the 12th annual Florida Citrus Bowl Sailing Regatta in Sanford, describing light and unpredictable wind conditions and the cancellation of most races due to weather.

Race report from the January 19, 1985 Florida Series regatta in Sarasota where Jim Kaighin won decisively with superior boat handling and tactics.

Race report from the February 2, 1985 Florida Series regatta with detailed race-by-race coverage of Jim and Dave Kaighin's competitive duel for first place.

Classified advertisements and boat listings for Thistle sailboats and related equipment, including used boats, sails, parts, and services available through members.