June/July 2008

President Kreitler discusses the upcoming National Championship in Pensacola and recent changes to TCA membership structure. He explains new membership categories created to grow participation in the class, including Active Member Non-Boat Owners who can charter boats to compete.

Minutes from the March 2, 2008 Governing Board meeting at St. Petersburg Yacht Club. Topics include the 2008 Nationals in Pensacola, youth programs, mast issues, and financial updates.

Comprehensive calendar of Thistle Class sailing events for summer and fall 2008, including district championships, invitational regattas, and the National Championship at Pensacola Yacht Club.

Features Jack Finefrock's custom dual-axle trailer design for transporting two Thistle sailboats, built with hot-dipped galvanized steel and featuring innovative cradles and removable mast supports to minimize wreckage during transport.

Chris LaBorde describes his innovative lightweight trailer design using chromolly tubing, weighing only 250 pounds total including bunks. The design prioritizes low weight, low drag, and aerodynamic efficiency to minimize fuel consumption when towing behind a car.

Chief Measurer lists specific measurements required at the Pensacola Nationals including rudder specifications, J dimension, weight, and sail measurements. Also reports on mast failure investigation findings and prevention recommendations.

Third Vice President Poltorak describes successful crew recruitment strategies used in San Diego, including the Thistle Racing Academy, online advertising on Craigslist and Meetup.com, and how to retain new sailors. He discusses the importance of marketing and community building for fleet growth.

John Krimmel was honored at the Mid-Winters West banquet in San Diego for over 30 years of dedication to photographing the Thistle Class. A commemorative poster of his work was presented, and testimonials from sailors highlighted his impact on capturing the spirit and pride of the class.

Comprehensive feature on Elmer Richards' passion for wooden Thistle boats, tracing the history of boats he has owned and restored. Includes the story of Goat Boat (#9), its extensive restoration, and Elmer's 51 consecutive Mid-Winters and 50 Nationals.

Detailed race-by-race reports of the first five races of Mid-Winters East, with firsthand accounts from skippers including Mike Ingham, Greg Griffin, Brent Barbehenn, and Paul Abdullah describing starts, mark roundings, and tactical decisions.

Description of the Kattack GPS system used at Mid-Winters East 2008 for race data recording and replay. The article explains how real race data is used for tactical analysis and education during Coach-TCA sessions.

First-hand account of a first-time attendee at Mid-Winters East, describing the week's activities, racing experiences, social events, and interactions with coaches and fleet members. The author finished the regatta having learned valuable lessons about sailing.

Complete race results from the five races of Mid-Winters East 2008 at St. Petersburg, with fleet divisions and trophy recipients. Greg Griffin won overall, Mike Ingham placed third, and Michael Didyk won the B fleet.

Official Notice of Race for the 2008 Thistle National Championship and Women's and Junior Nationals at Pensacola Yacht Club, August 3-8, 2008. Includes eligibility, measurement requirements, race schedule, and registration information.

Report on the Orange Peel Regatta at Florida Yacht Club in Jacksonville with pre-regatta activities and five race-by-race accounts. Paul Abdullah won overall, with Loy Vaughan and Mike Ingham placing second and third.

Proposal to amend TCA Specifications to permit VHF radios for safety communication, weather information, and race committee communication. Includes arguments for and against by Tom Hubbell, Jack Finefrock, and Kyle Finefrock, to be voted on at the 2008 Annual Meeting.

Photo section featuring family stories and humorous images from the Thistle community, including birth announcements, ski trip photos, wedding celebrations, and snow-covered boats after Mid-Winters.

Advertisement section featuring products and services for Thistle sailors, including Acrylic Thistle Covers by Rooke Sails, Jibmaster cleats, Quantum Sails contacts, racing coaching, insurance, and The Great Midwest Yacht Company.