February / March 1986

Editor's corrections section addressing errors in previous issues, including corrections to the October/November issue regarding the Morgan Junior Trophy results and the December/January issue regarding cover artwork.

Announcements regarding class amendments and 1988 Nationals bidding information for fleets interested in hosting.

The new president discusses the challenges facing Thistle construction with current labor-intensive restrictions and limited wood supplies. He explores potential solutions including reinforced plastic substitution, female-mold fiberglass hulls, and modified design approaches to reduce costs while maintaining class integrity.

Announces the 1985 recipients of the Thistle Class Association's new Growth and Promotion Trophy program, recognizing fleets with significant increases in R&D boats. Jan MacLean's Fleet 161 went from 11 to 19 R&D boats, while Roger Creel's Fleet 16 grew from 7 to 11 R&D boats, both earning recognition for their membership growth efforts.

Collection of reader letters addressing growth and promotion, wooden vs. fiberglass Thistles, and thank you notes for regatta participation. Topics include fleet management strategies, class construction debates, and appreciation for competitive events.

A lengthy open letter discussing the debate over allowing new wooden Thistles to be built. The author argues for the right to build new wooden Thistles, questioning the class's decision to restrict wooden boat construction and presenting arguments about cost, competitiveness, and the nature of the one-design class.

An in-depth interview with multiple fleet captains about their roles and strategies for fleet growth and promotion. Captains discuss organizing races, recruiting new members, promoting activities, and building community through social events and competitions.

Reprinted article outlining a proven formula for one-design class fleet success based on 700 years of J/24 experience. Includes specific strategies for fleet programming such as potluck suppers, moon wine events, fleet cruises, and new member assistance to maintain steady growth and membership.

A comprehensive guide for Thistle sailors on how to write engaging regatta reports for publication in the Bagpipe. Covers mechanics of writing, structure, style, photography tips, and the importance of including details about competitors, sailing conditions, and interesting incidents.

Report of the Hoover Thistle Regatta held September 7-8 with thirty-five boats competing. Columbus-area sailors dominated, with Greg Fisher winning overall after several races. The event featured excellent food and entertainment, with skippers noting songs from decades past during the Saturday night celebration.

Report of the Billie Boswell Memorial Regatta held at Lake Cachuma, August 24-25. The Lightnings invited seven intrepid Thistles to share their regatta. Despite challenging wind conditions and a capsize by one boat, the event was considered a success with participants praising the venue.

Report of the 1985 Niagara Frontier Thistle Districts held July 13-14 at the Otsego Sailing Club in Cooperstown, New York. First race saw Tim Rice arrive late with Don Stehle finishing second. Saturday racing showcased strong southerly winds and competitive results. Sunday brought welcome strong winds with Gary Fritz and Jim Tompkins taking top finishes.

Report of the Lake Michigan Districts held July 13-14 at Lake Michigan's Kenosha Yacht Club, Fleet 134. Heavy weather with 25-30 knot winds and gusts to 35-40 forced the abandonment of races, though two races eventually started. Results show competitive racing with Mark Kettleson, Peter Dickinson, and Michael Pobar leading.

Report of the NCAL Districts held at Black Butte Lake in June, where Wade Hough and Bettie Ann Hough won the NCAL Championship. The five-race event featured light and shifty conditions, with Hough establishing an early lead and eventually clinching first place.

Report of the 1985 Naptown Regatta held with thirty-one Thistles from five states gathering for festivities and competition. Weather was superb and competitive. Bruce Dryden won after leading initial races, with Dick Otter and local skippers placing highly.

Report of the Old Goat Regatta hosted by Fleet 79 in Atlanta, featuring numerous Thistlers from the Southeast. Includes race results and notes on outstanding performances by various skippers and crews.

Report of the eighteenth annual Glimmerglass Regatta held September 14-15 at Otsego Sailing Club in Cooperstown, New York. Despite clear skies initially, winds favored a course change and John Fenno demonstrated strong performance taking first place.

Report of the second annual Wild Turkey regatta held in great sailing conditions at the Jacksonville Rudder Club. Only two boats from outside the fleet were on hand. The first race started at 8-12 knot northeast and ended with Peter Bream leading. Three Cold Cup courses were run by the local harbor, with final results showing competitive racing.

Detailed report of the Lake Erie East District Fall Series held in September. Multiple regattas at various locations including Berlin Lake and Atwood, with emphasis on changing weather conditions and competitive racing. Covers skippers' performances and social activities.

A column featuring sailing accessories and improvements that sailors have found helpful. Describes a nifty tie-down bar utilizing old blocks to increase buoyage with the trailer, featuring Wade Hough's innovation featured in pictures.

List of new members joining the Thistle Class Association across various regions including Central Atlantic, Florida, Lake Erie West, Lake Erie East, Long Island Sound, Michigan, Middle America, and New Jersey.

Classified advertisements for Thistle boats for sale and related services including boat listings, parts, repair services, and supplies.