April/May 1999

President Lawrence reflects on the success of the Midwinters regattas on both coasts and addresses club concerns about finances and membership. She discusses class memberships, upcoming Nationals, youth participation, and internet connectivity initiatives.

Schauble discusses the importance of maintaining fun as a central value in Thistle sailing. He explores definitions of fun in the class, emphasizes shared enjoyment over winning, and warns that losing focus on fun will hurt recruitment and retention of both adult and junior sailors.

Hudson discusses the upcoming sailing season and notes changes to Bagpipe production. The editors announce a switch to Listbot for the list-serve provider and invite reader participation, particularly regarding youth participation and fleet news.

Detailed report of the Midwinters West championship regatta held in San Diego, January 21-24, with race-by-race analysis. Lettenmaier describes challenging sailing conditions and provides comprehensive race commentary and final standings for the championship and president's divisions.

Report on the President's Division races at Midwinters West. Obenski notes that eighteen competitors faced challenging conditions and provides comprehensive race results and anecdotes about notable performances.

Registration form and merchandise pricing for the 1999 Nationals Championships held in Edenton, North Carolina. Includes pricing for meals, child care, regatta fees, and "Cool Regatta Stuff" merchandise.

Official Notice of Race for the 1999 TCA National Championship regatta in Edenton, North Carolina. Includes racing rules, registration requirements, check-in procedures, measurement requirements, race schedule, and scoring information.

LaBorde makes a passionate case for youth participation in the Junior Nationals, arguing that without adequate youth fleet participation, the future of the Thistle class is at risk. He shares his own experience learning to sail and encourages parents to bring their children to compete.

Announcement of child care services provided by Edenton-Clayson Parks and Recreation Department during the 1999 Nationals. Details include daily activities, hours of operation, and pricing.

Technical specifications and measurement requirements for the 1999 Nationals. Lists all equipment and boat components that will be measured including sails, weight, safety equipment, and specific hardware dimensions.

Mollitor describes how the Atlanta Thistle Fleet successfully reversed years of declining participation through a creative revival event and strong community engagement, doubling their race pledges and fostering renewed enthusiasm among members.

Report of a rescue at Lake St. Clair where skipper Dale Trott's capsized Thistle #3585 was rescued by Sir Thomas Hubbell in his Thistle #3890, demonstrating exemplary seamanship and assistance during difficult conditions.

Official minutes from the Thistle Class Association Governing Board meeting covering regatta organization, sailing instructions, rules clarifications, youth sailing initiatives, and future Nationals site selections.

Comprehensive article on physical fitness for sailors covering six components: flexibility, muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiovascular endurance, body composition, and motor ability. Includes training guidelines, exercise examples, and a heart rate training chart.

A puzzle feature asking readers to identify a West Coast sailor based on a photo of someone measuring a boat. An answer is provided in reverse text at the bottom of the page.

List of new members welcomed to the Thistle Class Association across various districts and regions, organized geographically.

Classified advertisements and product listings for used Thistles, equipment, sails, covers, and related nautical products. Includes pricing, descriptions, and contact information for buyers and sellers.