December 2005/January 2006

The president reflects on how Thistle sailing transcends the sport itself and becomes a lifestyle that brings people together. He discusses how the Thistle class fosters relationships based on shared experiences both on and off the water.

The new Chief Measurer introduces himself and outlines his responsibilities. He discusses the role's duties as defined in the Thistle Class Constitution and explains how he interprets the rules with emphasis on maintaining the class as a standard one-design.

The secretary emphasizes how a boat's value is tied to the health and growth of the Thistle class. She provides practical suggestions for fleet members to help grow the class, including introducing new sailors, maintaining lending boats, and promoting fleet communication.

The First Vice President addresses the challenge of declining TCA membership and discusses strategies to retain existing members and attract new sailors to the class. He emphasizes the importance of local fleet efforts in demonstrating the value of the Thistle.

The Third Vice President emphasizes that fleet growth is the foundation for class growth and outlines effective communication strategies that successful fleets use. He discusses email lists, web pages, newsletters, and personal contact methods.

Race report from the Wild Turkey regatta at Lake Sinclair in Milledgeville, Georgia, where 11 boats competed in excellent September conditions. Greg Griffin dominated with four first-place finishes.

Report from the 50+ year old Atwood Harvest Moon regatta held September 10-11, which featured four races including a historic first - running races from the on-shore race shanty and offering race three on Saturday.

Coverage of the women's and juniors' championships held at Lavallette Yacht Club on July 30, 2005. Despite a power outage and lack of launch ramp, the Thistle community improvised to hold successful races with impressive young talent competing.

Two contrasting perspectives from top Nationals finishers Mike Ingham (first place) and Bruce King (second place) on boat speed, upwind tactics, and race strategy. Ingham emphasizes the big picture while King provides detailed tactical analysis.

Report on the President's Division races at the 2005 Nationals at Lavallette Yacht Club. Details four races with commentary from various skippers explaining their performance and challenges during the week.

Report on the 44th Old Goat Regatta held September 10-11 at Lake Lanier Sailing Club with 37 boats competing. Greg Griffin dominated the five-race series while all stages of Thistle skipper evolution were represented.

Report on the 36th annual Bloody Mary Regatta held November 5-6 at Lake Hartwell hosted by Western Carolina Sailing Club. Skip Dieball and crew dominated in excellent racing conditions with 21 boats competing.

Report from the Lake Erie Fall Series event at Cleveland Yachting Club on September 24 featuring 18 teams racing in five once-around, college-style races. Attendance was nearly double compared to previous years.

Report on Fleet 65's fall regatta and chili cook-off held September 14-15 at Cowan Lake, Ohio with 13 boats competing. Light winds on Friday gave way to no wind on Sunday, but sailors enjoyed excellent conditions on Saturday.

Report on the fall Icebreaker regatta hosted by North Star Sail Club on Lake St. Clair in place of Crescent Sail Yacht Club which was under construction. Eight boats competed in ideal sailing conditions.

A narrative account of a sailing cruise to Cumberland Island, Georgia aboard a Thistle (#2177 Dare) in company with Wayfarer dinghies. The author describes the journey's challenges and rewards, including encounters with wildlife and natural beauty.

Report on the 26th annual Delripett Regatta (Delaware River Perpetual Thistle Trophy) at New Castle Sailing Club featuring heavy air racing with substantial wind and significant lead changes throughout seven races.

Comprehensive report on the East Coast Fall Series with commentary from various racers and vignettes from different regattas. The series featured 78 different boats participating across eight qualifying regattas.

Brief notice requesting bids for hosting the 2007 Nationals. The TCA has been unable to secure a host and is calling on all fleets to consider submitting bids and identifying potential venues.

Miscellaneous listings including boat for sale and product advertisements from manufacturers including Rooke Sails, North Sails, JibMaster II cleats, and boat cover makers.

Editorial note from the Bagpipe editor discussing the challenges of producing the publication and requesting more contributions from western and central regions, particularly articles, pictures, and features.

Miscellaneous items section including a photo from Hunter Dyer and notes about fleet correspondence and dues collection.

Report on the 2005 Domin Memorial Thistle Fall Regatta at Pymatuning Yacht Club featuring new course formats. Heavy fog and no wind on Sunday prevented the fifth race, but Skip Dieball dominated with four bullets.