October/November 2009

Craig Smith reflects on his five years of service as TCA president, outlining major projects he initiated including the TCA Facebook page, mentorship program, video updates, DVD productions, merchandise partnerships, scanned Bagpipe archives, and Thistle Crew University. He expresses both satisfaction and readiness to return to local fleet involvement.

Bagpipe editor Kevin Arrow shares feedback from a Thistle builder and solicits more "how to" and instructional articles for the publication. He thanks Doug Laber and Nick Turney for the mast setup article and acknowledges Cedar Point's efforts in documenting the Nationals.

Incoming president Mike Gillum reflects on the outstanding 2009 Nationals at Cedar Point, expressing gratitude to Craig Smith for his leadership and to the many volunteers who made the event successful. He discusses record attendance (83 Thistles), the strong team assembled for leadership, and looks forward to the upcoming 2010 sailing season and future Nationals.

Minutes from the August 5, 2009 TCA Governing Board meeting at Cedar Point, covering officer reports on measurement issues, membership status, finances, Bagpipe publication, growth initiatives, 2010 Nationals planning, and rule amendments including electronic device restrictions.

Collection of advertisements and notices including boat covers (Rooke Sails), Thistle hardware and parts, Jibmaster cleats, boat covers (One Design), Wanenmacher Insurance, Bagpipe magazine back issues ordering, regatta calendar, and insurance policies for one-design racers.

A tribute to Margaret Spears Walsh, a pioneering woman entrepreneur and devoted Thistle sailor. Marge was an accountant, business owner, and passionate promoter of family sailing who won the Thistle Nationals twice (1961, 1963) with her family at the helm. She remained active in her community and athletic pursuits throughout her life before passing away in December 2008.

A comprehensive technical guide to Thistle mast setup and tuning, covering straightening the mast, diamond wire tension, prebend adjustment using shims, and controlling mast bend. The article includes detailed photographs showing proper techniques and explains how mast bend affects mainsail shape.

Report on the 2009 Thistle Junior National Championships at Cedar Point, where 15 boats competed. Andy Gunkier describes three races with detailed accounts of tactics, boat handling, and crew work, culminating in Andy's victory with crew Nick Gilmore and Kyle Gladieux. The article celebrates strong junior participation and acknowledges mentors from the class.

Nicole Shedden recounts the 2009 Women's Nationals at Cedar Point, where 15 boats competed after Kimberly Paisley's challenge to Craig Smith. The article describes three races in light and fickle conditions, with Kirsten Barton ultimately winning the championship. It celebrates the enthusiasm, spectators, and competitive spirit of women sailors.

Comprehensive race-by-race coverage of the 2009 Thistle National Championship held August 2-7 at Cedar Point Yacht Club. Reports cover qualifying races and championship races with detailed tactical analysis by skippers Greg Fisher, Chris Wilson, Tim Fitzgerald, Steve Gruver, Brent Barbehenn, Charlie Kreitler, Jack Finefrock, Mike Ingham, and Craig Smith. Dave Dellenbaugh dominated the regatta.

Lighthearted recap of social activities during 2009 Nationals week, including bands, boats names, bocce tournament, corn-eating contest, drinking games, dedicated days, talent show, housing, mafia night, and personal stories. The article celebrates the camaraderie and off-water entertainment that made the week memorable.

Report on the 2009 LIS/NJ/NE Mega-Open District Championships held June 13-14 at Cedar Point Yacht Club. Forty-one teams from multiple districts competed in four races. Dave Dellenbaugh won overall with three first places, while district champions were crowned in LIS (Jared Ridder), NJ (Tim Hussey), and NE (Erik Goethert).

Report on the Independence Day Regatta at Pymatuning Yacht Club in Ohio, where 41 Thistles and numerous other boats competed. The event featured three races with challenging wind conditions, excellent food and entertainment, and a festive party. Brent Barbehenn dominated the series.

Report on 2009 PNW Districts held at North Flathead Yacht Club in Montana in July. Wayne Balsiger won the championship with crew Karen Gilbert and Michael Reis. Five races were sailed in moderate to light air with praise for the venue and hosting.

Report on the Adirondack Invitational Regatta held June 20-21 at Saratoga Lake Sailing Club. Seventeen Thistle crews competed, with Saturday bringing no racing due to light winds. Sunday saw three races with Jared Ridder winning overall, followed by Jonas Kelly and David Hansen.

Comprehensive regatta calendar for fall and winter 2009, listing October, November, and December events across all regions including Ice Breaker, Kayaderosseras Kup, Old Salty, Johnson Memorial, Thistle Cup, Oyster Roast, and many more.

Craig Smith humorously recounts the origins and execution of his famous purple mohawk challenge. After Kimberly Paisley suggested he dye his hair if they got 15 women's boats, and Brian Swingly challenged him to shave a mohawk if they got 15 junior boats, both thresholds were met. The article includes an email from International Lightning Class President Brian Hayes praising his efforts.