June/July 1998

President Hubbell discusses feedback received about increased Thistle racing at Midwinters East and the controversies that arose, including issues with OCS handling, boat hailing, and starting procedures. He addresses the planned hailing of OCS boats, the role of the Race Committee, and proposes solutions like two starts and stricter time limits to improve the regatta experience.

This Growth & Promotion article discusses the importance of internal promotion and interaction for class strength. Schauble encourages members to promote the class through networking events, meeting new Thistlers, and maintaining connections throughout the year to strengthen class bonds and encourage participation in future nationals.

Editor Hudson discusses how electronic communication has changed the newsletter's role and the Bagpipe's evolution from mail-based to electronic submissions. He explains the new editorial office and submission process, the advantages of electronic communication, and introduces new features including a new editors' link and summarized discussions from the Thistle List-serv.

Announcement of measurement items to be checked at the 1998 TCA Nationals in Racine, including boat weight, rudder thickness, corrector weight location, sail configuration, safety equipment, and other specifications. Notes that all boats are subject to random inspections.

Information about a video available featuring coaching commentary by Greg Fisher from Midwinters East. The video can be rented from the film custodian for a fee with a deposit required.

Notice announcing that all Thistle Class films are now available in VHS video cassette format. A list of available films is provided, noting that the last two are Hollywood movies with Thistles in them. Rentals are available from the film custodian for a fee.

Announcement that the 1998 yearbook roster has been mailed with revised plans prepared by Ron Smith. Those who haven't received a copy should notify Honey Abramson for a duplicate.

Summary of Thistle List-serv discussion about over-early starts (OCS) at regattas, particularly at Midwinters East. Discusses various proposed solutions including notification systems, electronic methods, boat hailing approaches using "gate" or "rabbit" starting systems, and the merits of different approaches used in other classes.

A comprehensive guide for attending the 1998 Thistle Nationals in Racine, Wisconsin. Covers lodging, dining, recreational activities, party schedule, transportation, racing start times, and contact information for various committees and race organizers.

News report about the development of a new two-piece folding mast for Thistle sailboats by local sailsmith Bent Brentman and Thistle sailor Eli Philanderer. Describes the initial testing and experimental process using Uniradial Geodesic Spinmakers in a marina parking lot.

Detailed race report from Midwinters East Championship covering 68 boats in the largest turnout in 20 years. Describes the exciting sailing conditions, individual race performances of leading teams, and the competitive atmosphere of the event. Details the controversial Race 4 situation and various team performances throughout the week-long championship.

Complete race results table from the Midwinters East Championship showing placement, sail numbers, crew names, race scores for 7 races, and total points. Results show 68 entries with scores from 22 to 460 points using low point scoring system.

Photo display of award winners from the Midwinters East Championship, organized by division (Championship Division, Top Florida, and B Division). Shows winning teams with trophies.

Description of three special awards presented at Midwinters East: the Ted Tolson Award honoring Wilson Barnes for his contributions to race management; the Darlene Clark Award given to Will Stout for exemplifying the Clark spirit of warmth and hospitality; and the Whistlin' Tom Award presented to Elmer Richards for longtime Thistle enthusiasm.

Narrative account of the social aspects of Midwinters East, describing the casual atmosphere, old-timer reunions, new participants, and various social events including meals, activities, and the awards banquet. Highlights the friendly Thistle community and the importance of the social connections alongside the racing.

Guide for writing regatta reports for the Bagpipe, covering why reports are important, how to overcome writer's block, and specific guidelines for content, results, length, photographs, and submission process. Includes practical tips for organizing information and making reports engaging for readers.

Article addressing women's participation in Thistle sailing, encouraging women to improve their skills and take on crew and skipper roles. Provides practical advice for both women sailors and men supporting women in the class, emphasizing skill development, confidence building, and participation.

Humorous article from a woman who has owned and skipped a Thistle for 11 years, describing her sailing experience with an honest perspective on boat ownership. Includes a "Top Ten Reasons" list for owning and skipping a Thistle.

Announcement and registration information for the 1998 Thistle Women's Nationals being held in Racine, Wisconsin on August 8. Includes eligibility requirements, costs, available services, and contact information for organizers.

Personal narrative about the purchase and acquisition of Thistle sailboat 2159. Describes the process of boat shopping, research, negotiations with owners, and finally purchasing a boat in pristine condition with complete sailing equipment included.

Humorous account of a Thistle mafia wedding ceremony at Yale University's Dwight Chapel in December 1997, where Thistlers formed an arch with their tillers and spinnaker poles for the newlyweds to pass under.

Listing of new members welcomed to the Thistle Class Association, organized by regional fleet. Includes members' names and boat numbers from various districts including Long Island Sound, Niagara Frontier, Carolinas, Florida, and others.

Guide to East Coast Fall Series regattas sponsored by the TCA, describing multiple sailing events through the fall season including details on locations, dates, and conditions. Encourages sailors to attend local fall series events without needing extra vacation time.

Report on the Southeastern Interdistrict Championship held in April at Birmingham Sailing Club on Lake Logan Martin. Describes the excellent racing conditions and tactical challenges, including various team performances and the use of a bonus point system that rewards improving positions.

Race report from the Delta District Championship held at Rush Creek Yacht Club near Dallas. Dave Smedley won with dominant performance in light and variable wind conditions, with Jim Kincaid placing second and Chris LaBorde third.

Report of the Rob Roy Regatta held on Swift Creek Reservoir near Richmond, Virginia. Describes the hot weather conditions and competitive racing with two triangle courses sailed with Don Moore taking the regatta.

Race report from the 1998 LEW Spring Series Eight Ball Regatta held in Indianapolis with 30 boats competing. Describes challenging wind conditions on both days and highlights the dominant performance of Sjoerd-Jan Vanderhorst.

Race report from the Lake Livingston regatta where Jim Kincaid dominated with three consecutive first place finishes. Originally named a different title, the event was renamed informally due to the hot conditions.

Brief report about Current Thistle National Champion Mike Ingham and Bobby Bryant finishing as runners-up in the Championship of Champions regatta held recently in Newport Beach, California.

Classified section containing listings for Thistle sailboats for sale, sails, equipment, and miscellaneous items related to Thistle sailing. Includes new and used boats, parts, covers, and related services.