August-September 2003

The Dixie Regatta was held at Atlanta Yacht Club in May with 48 boats sailing under an Australian Outback theme. Will Stout won the regatta sailing his boat MAGIC with crew Shawn Burke, with Jack Finefrock placing second and Greg Griffin placing fourth. The event featured unique launching conditions due to high water levels at Lake Altoona.

President Finefrock reports on fleet growth and promotion activities, highlighting efforts at Buckeye Lake, Chicago, Kansas City, and Atlanta. He emphasizes the importance of teaching and mentoring new sailors, particularly juniors, as the foundation for the class's future.

The editors introduce the August-September issue, highlighting regatta coverage including the inter-district championships (Atlantic Coast and Great Lakes), the 8-Ball, and the Dixie. They announce the 2004 Nationals will be held in Michigan City and solicit regatta dates from organizers.

Third Vice President Ted Lischer discusses how the Kansas City fleet has successfully recruited college sailors from the University of Kansas to crew in Thistles, and how this youth infusion has energized fleet activities. He encourages all fleets to reach out to nearby colleges.

The 8-Ball regatta in Indianapolis was won by Bruce King with crew Mark Makielski and Erin Scherer, capturing four bullets in eight races. The event drew 37 boats and served as a spring tune-up for Lake Erie sailors preparing for Midwinters.

The Long Island Sound/New England District Championship was held at Cottage Park Yacht Club in Boston under challenging conditions with strong northeast winds, chop, and 8-foot tides. Dave Foster won the regatta with five races sailed in competitive conditions showcasing excellent sailing talent.

The Lake Michigan Districts were held at Corinthian Yacht Club in downtown Chicago with 13 boats from six states competing. Blair Dryden won overall with Kevin Arrow taking first place in the districts. The venue featured great conditions and the Gillians did an excellent job organizing the event.

The Great Lakes Championship was held in Michigan City, Indiana with 22 boats competing in five races. Mike Ingham won the regatta, with Blair Dryden second and Bryce Dryden third. The event featured varied wind conditions from 5 to 15 knots and will be the site of the 2004 Nationals.

An obituary for Bradford McFadden Jr., a longtime Atlanta Thistle sailor and prominent member of Atlanta Yacht Club who died in a skiing accident in Aspen, Colorado. McFadden was known for his generosity, competitive sailing, and service to the sailing community.

The 2003 Atlantic Coast Championship was held in Annapolis, Maryland with five races in mixed conditions. Charlie Kreitler won the championship, followed by Blair Dryden and Jack Finefrock. The event featured challenging conditions with shifty winds and chop, and will be held next year in Boston.

Classified ads and product listings for Thistle boat parts, sails, covers, and related equipment, along with information about the Bagpipe submission procedures.