June/July 2006

President Lischer discusses the sailing season and the Thistle's unique ability to travel on circuits across the country. He highlights the upcoming North Cape Nationals and improvements to race committee options, including the trapezoid course, and introduces the inaugural raffle for Thistle #4000.

Smith shares success stories from Fleet 184 in Delaware and Fleet 28 in Baltimore that grew their membership through structured Thistle Crew University training programs. He announces the availability of a 60-minute training DVD for fleet captains to help replicate the program.

Correction to April-May 2006 issue regarding second place in the B Fleet at Midwinters East, identifying the correct skipper and crew.

Detailed technical report on the testing of the trapezoid course at Midwinters East, covering three races, course observations, race management considerations, and recommendations for future use of this course configuration at nationals.

Report on the Central Southern Interdistrics regatta held in Shreveport, Louisiana, featuring 21 boats competing over five races with conditions ranging from light wind to challenging 15-22 mph winds, plus a detailed description of the social events and food.

Race results from the Pacific Coast Championship regatta featuring six races, with Skip Kempff (#1347) taking first place with 11 points.

A collection of humorous anecdotes and funny stories from Thistle sailors, including tales about missing marks, fishing mishaps, and memorable regatta moments.

Race report from the Desert Regatta on the Snake River in Pasco, Washington, featuring seven boats competing over five races in strong, variable winds with detailed descriptions of individual boat performances and weather conditions.

Registration form for the 2006 Thistle Nationals at North Cape Yacht Club, La Salle, Michigan, August 6-11, 2006, including entry fees, meal options, and merchandise preorder details.

Registration form for the 2006 Women's and Juniors Nationals at North Cape Yacht Club, La Salle, Michigan, August 5, 2006, including entry fees and meal options.

Details for the inaugural raffle to win a fully rigged Thistle #4000, the first of the 4000-series boats, with a retail value of $20,350. Tickets cost $100 each with a maximum of 500 tickets sold.

Pirate-themed regatta report from the Dixie Sea Series at Atlanta Yacht Club featuring 55 boats from eight states over Memorial Day Weekend, with detailed race action, social events, and notable performances including a family saga between Jack and Nicole Finefrock.

Report on the Indianapolis Sailing Club's 2006 8-Ball regatta featuring 25 teams competing in 10 races with strong, gusty winds. Wes and Ann Harnish topped the field with consistent performances throughout the weekend.

Report on the 49th Annual Admiral Farragut Regatta at Knoxville, Tennessee on May 6-7, 2006, with 16 boats competing under steady conditions with good social events and close competition.

Results from the Carolinas' Districts regatta held April 29-30 at Lake Keowee Sailing Club with six boats competing in tight racing over five races in 8-18 knot winds.

News item celebrating the College of Charleston sailing team's success at the ICSA National Women's Dinghy Championship, where Megan Riddle and her teammates won the national competition.

Personal essay about Fahrmeier's journey into Thistle sailing, from initial skepticism to falling in love with the class through the influence of fellow sailor Neil Patzer and the restoration of an old boat.

Editorial discussing the importance of both home fleet supporters and traveling circuit sailors to the overall health and growth of the Thistle Class.

Educational article about proper nutrition and hydration for sailors competing in regattas, with practical tips and recommendations for staying fueled and hydrated during racing.

Photo section featuring Thistle-related images submitted by readers, including sunrise through rigging at North Cape Yacht Club and Lake Erie Fall Finale at Buckeye Lake.

Report on the Lake Mission Viejo Spring Invitational regatta held April 1, 2006, featuring challenging lake sailing conditions with eight boats competing in three races with shifting winds and strategic placement crucial to success.

Feature article about Sea Scout Ship 300 in Knoxville, Tennessee, which uses Thistles to teach youth sailing and leadership from ages 14-21. The article highlights the organization's successes including Eagle Scout recipients and upcoming international competition.