April/May 1992

President MacLean reflects on the Midwinters West regatta in San Diego, praising the organization and discussing upcoming class activities including preparations for the Nationals and maintaining Thistle enthusiasm.

Gowans discusses efforts to grow the Thistle class through a promotional T-shirt project. Despite challenges with inventory management and shipping issues, the project has generated interest and continues to need attention and coordination.

Chief Measurer Klotz provides detailed instructions on how to properly measure various hull dimensions of a Thistle, with specifications for each measurement and clarifications on points of confusion.

Editor Valla reflects on feedback regarding the Bagpipe and encourages readers to submit questions, articles, photographs, and regatta information to make the publication more valuable to the class.

Collection of letters from readers discussing Monterey Bay sailing, the Thistle restoration process, competitive issues, and crew recognition in regatta reports.

A humorous fictional story about a father struggling to manage his competitive sons during a regatta race, losing control of the situation as the day progresses with mounting complications and mishaps.

Official minutes from the Thistle Class Governing Board meeting held March 4, 1992, covering membership reports, video project updates, championship decisions, and various committee discussions.

Chamberlain provides humorous and detailed instructions on proper capsizing technique, covering various methods and the importance of maintaining composure and skill during the process.

An obituary-style account of the final days of Thistle 71, a fiberglass hull that served many owners through racing and casual sailing before meeting an unfortunate end at a mooring.

A comprehensive listing of new Thistle class members organized by region, welcoming them to the fleet across numerous fleets throughout North America.

A celebratory account of Kathleen "Ma" Fricker's 70th birthday party, highlighting her decades of involvement in sailing and the Thistle Fleet community in the Southeast.

Detailed information and registration details for the 1992 Thistle National Championship to be held August 8-14 in Monroe, Michigan, including schedule, fees, local information, and contact details.

Announcement that Oak Harbor, Washington will host the 1993 Thistle National Championship, with details about the location, climate, activities, and logistics for the event.

An extensive obituary celebrating the life and legacy of Gordon "Sandy" Douglass, the renowned yacht designer who created the Thistle and contributed significantly to small boat sailing history.