April/May 1989

Collection of boat-for-sale listings, sailing equipment classifieds, and miscellaneous advertisements throughout the issue.

Important notice regarding new measurement certificates being issued with 1989 or later date stamp, and notification about Leatherlips Yacht Club Fleet #21 dues payment record.

The president reflects on attending both Mid-Winters regattas and the state of the Thistle organization. He discusses concerns about membership retention, the health of the class, and celebrates the enthusiasm found on both coasts.

Reports on the dramatic increase in attendance at Mid-Winters East (57 boats in 1989, up from 39 in 1988) and discusses boat building trends. The author emphasizes the importance of getting control and doing the work to attract and retain members.

Collection of letters from readers including one about Kentuckty Lake discoveries and another from Jon King about maintaining national championships at non-traditional sites and supporting a mail order boat search.

Minutes from the Governing Board meeting held Monday, February 27, 1989, at the Sailing Center of St. Petersburg Yacht Club covering topics including nationals rotation, advertising, and rule changes.

A historical article about Fox River Boat Company, which built Thistle boats in the 1940s. The company was founded by Dan Kidney in 1874 and built small wooden duck hunting boats before transitioning to sailing dinghies including Thistles.

A humorous guide to calculating calories burned while sailing a Thistle, with position-specific estimates for different crew roles and various conditions. Includes estimates for hiking, sailing maneuvers, and emotional stress during racing.

Technical article explaining wave dynamics and techniques for sailing upwind in choppy conditions. Includes detailed explanation of wave structure, boat handling techniques, and crew coordination strategies.

Information about the 1989 TCA National Championship at Sayville Yacht Club in Blue Point, Long Island, New York, including championship details, registration information, and accommodations.

Discussion of the starting line rules and techniques for achieving a good start. Explains Rule 42 and common starting mistakes, with advice for positioning upwind of the starting line.

Results of 1988 hull construction survey analyzing boat age, materials, competitiveness, and construction methods. Includes pie and bar charts showing the distribution of fiberglass vs. wood hulls and competitive vs. non-competitive boats.

List of new members joining the Thistle Class Association from various districts and regions across the United States.

Report from the September 10-11, 1988 Hoover Regatta in Columbus, Ohio where Chuck Steigerwald won with 30 boats competing. Includes detailed race commentary and final race results.

Race report from the November 19-20, 1988 Turkey Day Regatta in Houston, with detailed commentary on two race days and a mix of competitive sailing and humorous incidents involving the crew.

Report of October 2-3 regatta at Lake of the Pines, Texas. Race report details the close competition and changing wind conditions.

Report of September 3-4 regatta at Chandlers Landing on Lake of the Pines, Texas. Features commentary on racing conditions and events including a costume contest.

Report of the 1988 Central Southern Interdistricts regatta in Dallas, Texas with entries from multiple districts. Includes detailed race results and competitive standings.