June/July 1989

The president reflects on personal and public moments in Thistling, describing his boat restoration project and his participation in a sailing seminar in Seattle led by Greg Fisher and Mark Laura, highlighting the growing youth participation in the class.

The third vice president discusses strategies for growing Thistle participation, suggesting social and recreational events alongside racing to attract and retain members, and noting the importance of making Thistles accessible and fun for all types of people.

An article describing the dangers of commercial tow boats and their wakes to small pleasure boats, explaining blind spots, proper positioning, crossing techniques, and rules to avoid collisions on rivers and waterways.

A notice of proposed changes to Thistle Class specifications submitted by Fleet 21 regarding roller reefing gear options.

A collection of three reader letters addressing topics including promoting Thistles internationally, using Huntington Lake for the Nationals, and a sailing instructor's offer to teach prospective sailors.

A list of new members to the Thistle Class Association organized by regional fleets, welcoming sailors from across North America to the class.

An announcement for the Great Lakes Championships to be held July 7-9, 1989 at Cleveland Yachting Club on Lake Erie, featuring five planned races, family-friendly activities, and housing/babysitting provisions.

An extensive technical article on boat handling and tuning by a top sailor, covering the importance of boat speed, hull maintenance, rudder techniques, mast setup, sail trim, and the role of teamwork in competitive Thistle sailing.

The official schedule and details for the 1989 Thistle National Championships to be held August 11-18, 1989 at Sayville Yacht Club in Blue Point, Long Island, New York, including registration times, racing schedule, and social events.

Comprehensive information for participants in the 1989 Nationals including pre-registration requirements, registration fees, safety equipment requirements, accommodations, meals, special events, air transportation, and detailed directions to Sayville Yacht Club.

An analysis of Rule 39 (Same Tack-Sailing) and its relationship to proper course, examining how the rule applies in various racing situations and emphasizing the importance of understanding the rules and knowing one's rights and responsibilities.

Information about the Class's Used Boat Clearinghouse service, which helps current and prospective Thistlers buy and sell used boats by maintaining listings and providing boat information.

An analysis of first-beat racing strategy showing how a boat's position after the first mark can dramatically change during the rest of the race, with statistics and tactical hints for gaining positions after the first mark.

An explanation of major changes to yacht racing rules taking effect in 1989, including changes to fundamental rules about fair sailing, penalties, definitions, and several specific rule changes affecting Thistle racing.

A regatta report on the 1989 Midwinters West held at Mission Bay Yacht Club with 38 boats, including details on racing conditions, winner results, and the spirited atmosphere of the event with competitive racing and socializing.

A report on the Richmond Yacht Club Mid-Winters Series from November-February 1988, describing competitive racing in cool Bay skies with centerboarders, and noting the performance of top sailors in the series.

A report on a racing seminar hosted by the Seattle Thistle Fleet in April featuring instruction from Greg Fisher and Mark Laura, covering starting techniques, steering legs, and on-water drills with approximately 85 participants.

A report on the 10th Annual Potomac River Lightning-Thistle Challenge from August 20-21, 1988, where Thistles competed against Lightning-class sailboats, with strategy and results from the racing.

A comprehensive classified section featuring Thistle boats for sale with detailed descriptions, pricing, and contact information, representing various boat conditions and configurations from builders including D&M, GMW, Clark, and others.