February/March 1993

The outgoing president reflects on his year leading the Thistle Class, noting the organization's participation in the Sail Expo and planning for the upcoming 1993 and 1994 Nationals. He discusses the Class's efforts to maintain visibility through advertising and promote collegiate Thistle sailing, while emphasizing that grassroots activity at the local level is essential for sustained growth.

This article explores why individual Thistlers and local sailing clubs should work together to grow the Class through social events and local participation rather than relying solely on national events or media advertising. DeLorenzo argues that strong local fleets are built through fun, accessible activities that draw people to the sport and keep them engaged with the community.

An announcement of a junior sailing seminar for Thistles, Flying Juniors, and Lasers to be held June 12-15 at North Cape Yacht Club, featuring instruction from Greg Fisher, Derrick Fries, and Alex & Gazelle Camet.

Dave Valla's editorial discusses the ongoing nature of sailing as a sport and reflects on various sailing experiences and observations. He apologizes for an error in the previous issue and discusses the importance of regatta reports in the Bagpipe, and mentions receiving a book recommendation on sailing.

A collection of reader letters discussing Thistle sailing locations and related topics, including recommendations for publishing location-specific regatta reports and suggestions for promoting Thistle sailing in college programs.

Hugh Johnson describes the creation of a memorial plaque for his old Thistle #502, detailing the boat's history, construction, and the reasoning behind the plaque's design and specifications.

Betsy Yingling provides a detailed technical explanation of the rudder hum phenomenon in Thistles, discussing Karman vortex shedding, flow separation, and vibration mechanisms. She explains the physics behind why humming occurs and offers practical solutions to reduce or prevent the problem.

A list of new Thistle boat owners across various fleets and regions, organized by fleet location.

Don Shillingburg recounts his experience as a college sailor who borrowed a Thistle to race during the summer, competing in Long Island Sound districts, the Atlantic Coast Championship, and the Nationals. He thanks the Thistle community for their help and discusses the potential for Thistles in college sailing programs.

An announcement about a service operated by the Thistle Class Association to help current and prospective Thistlers obtain used boats. The service provides information about boats for sale and helps buyers and sellers connect.

Nancy Molitor describes Atlanta Fleet 48's Purple Jerseys tradition, an initiative to increase fleet participation and social engagement. She explains how the Purple Jerseys weekend concept creates excitement and encourages both experienced and less active sailors to participate in regular racing and social activities.

Rick Trowbridge recounts the history of Thistle #1466, which he discovered by phone call in early spring. The boat, originally built in 1961, spent decades in Houston before being restored and brought back to active sailing. The article chronicles the boat's journey and significance to the author's family.

Joy Martin announces the location and details of the 1993 Thistle Great Lakes Championship Regatta at Seneca Lake in Geneva, New York. She provides geographical information about the lake and its advantages for sailing, and encourages sailors to participate in this East-meets-Midwest regatta opportunity.

Betsy Yingling reports on the 1992 Lake Erie Fall Series, which featured races at six different locations with strong participation from multiple fleets. The series culminated in competition at multiple venues with various winners, highlighting the diversity of sailors and competitive conditions throughout the season.

Mike Sheridan reports on the Lake Glendale Sailing Club's fleet championship, where Marty Wilt won the Chevron (trophy) for the fourth consecutive year, sailing with his wife Anne and friend John Roberts. The article notes that Wilt has sailed Thistles for many years and been Fleet Champion multiple times.

An announcement of upcoming Thistle events including the 1993 Pacific Coast Championships in Seattle and the 1993 Nationals scheduled for July 24-25.

An announcement about a new instructional and promotional video for Thistle sailing, produced by Gardy-McGrath and featuring 30 minutes of live action and slow-motion sequences with helpful sailing tips.

F. Flintstone reports on the 1992 Oyster Roast Regatta at Severen Sailing Association in Annapolis, Maryland. Bob Bryant sailed consistently in varying wind conditions to win the 28-boat fleet, demonstrating the importance of adaptability and skillful boat handling across multiple races.

A collection of classified advertisements for Thistle boats for sale and related services, including used boats with various specifications, equipment, and pricing information.