Great Lakes & Midwest Districts

Ken Glor won the second annual Cleveland Lakefront Regatta on July 26-27 with 22 boats competing in fresh breeze on a windward-leeward 6-mile course. Glor finished 1 minute 20 seconds ahead of John Lovatt. Sunday's race was cancelled due to high winds.

The Edgewater Frostbite racing series concluded with winter weather bringing wind and snow. Harvey Busch and his yacht NAN TOO won the series with 97 points, followed by Sandy Douglass (Faukie, 84 points) and Art Hamars (Wee Too, 83 points). The results highlight the dominance of boats with TOO in their names and praise Busch's sailing family.

Nine hardy skippers from Cleveland are competing for the Jones Trophy offered by Edgewater Yacht Club in a series of ice races. Harvey Busch's NAN TOO leads with four wins, followed by Commodore Sandy Douglass' FAUKIE and John Lovett's WEE LOVETT TOO. The competition will continue when thick ice forms off Edgewater Harbor.

The Watkins Lake Yachting Association's first season with new Thistle fleet in 1947 began with seven boats. Ben Farnsworth won the championship in SEA WEED, No. 127. The fleet had notable success in inter-club regattas, winning five of seven trophies at Oakland and sweeping the West End Civic Trophy at Pontiac.

The final major yachting event of the season was held at Port Clinton, Ohio on October 11th under the Port Clinton Yacht Club. Eight Thistles participated in a three-race series with Jim Hendrickson's BLAC JAC, No. 21 emerging as victor, followed by Bill Schwalbert's TWINS and Snell & Bassett's THIS'LL DO. Sandy Douglass also participated, placing his PAUKIE in front during the Sunday afternoon race.

Cleveland's Edgewater Y.C. held its annual one-race regatta on July 28 in clear skies and average winds. John Lovett's Wee Lovett Too dominated the three-lap course, with Webb Brumbaugh's Thorny taking second and John Diehl's Frisca finishing third in thirteen-boat competition.

Michigan S.C. at Maxfield is enjoying a good racing season with six boats on Mifflin Lake. Through August first, Frank Janssen leads the standings with 77 5/8 points in Betty J. Too, followed by Bob Fletcher and Lee Forup. Members from the fleet also participated in the Put-in-Bay I.L.Y.A. regatta.

Report from Michigan Lake Y.C. where Frank Janssen won the season competition in BETTY J TOO #188, edging out Ralph Damlos in #189 by seven points. Janssen becomes the first Michigan Thistle to win the Frank Bissman Thistle Trophy. Fleet plans to curtail local schedule to attend more regattas next year.

Tony Herrmann won the class championship at Racine, Wisconsin, and was awarded the Grieswold Trophy. Racing occurred in two series of six races each, with varying results in each series. Other events during the season included regattas from Milwaukee to Racine and the Milwaukee Journal Regatta, both won by Herrmann's boat.

Harvey Bunch in NAN TOO and Bob Clabaugh in WEATHER each won one of two races in a series held June 26-27 on Cleveland's downtown lakefront. They were awarded the trophy equally after a coin toss. The regatta featured 17 boats total.

The Edgewater Yacht Club in Cleveland, Ohio hosted the Frostbite Series races on October 23-24, 1948. Originally scheduled for October 9 & 10 but postponed due to high winds, the races were held on Saturday October 23 and Sunday October 24. Three races were sailed on a triangular course. Harvey Busch won the series, with Busch and Webb Brumbaugh battling for top spots throughout the races.

News from Grosse Ile fleet which raised under a point-postponement system, reporting on twelve scheduled races and noting that George Derwin gathered the most points.

The Buckeye Lake Yacht Club and Lightning Fleet No. 43 invited Lightning and Thistle class boats to their 3rd Annual Snow Ball Regatta scheduled for October 16-17, 1948 at Buckeye Lake, Ohio. The event featured a "Sailing Clinic" conducted by nationally known skippers, followed by a party, with races at 2:30 P.M. Saturday and 9:30 A.M. and 1:00 P.M. Sunday.

Carl "Barney" Barnett became the first Thistle District Champion, winning the Lake Erie District Championship held July 24-25 at Sandusky. Barnett's GREAT SCOT #263 earned 92 1/4 points across three races in ideal weather conditions.

Fourth Annual Cleveland Lakefront Regatta held June 25-26 with Edgewater Y.C. Columbus taking honors through Harvey Busch and Emery Kamps. Saturday's race featured strong winds and the youth crew of Nancy Wilson received special recognition.

A recent race showed a new name in first place with Lantz's Windy winning, while Emory Kamp's Nature Boy took second and Harvey Bush's Man Too placed third.

The Thistle Class Association Lake Erie District Championship will be held July 23-24, 1949 in Sandusky, Ohio, hosted by Thistle Fleet #3. The event features three races and excellent facilities for participants.

Harvey Busch won the Edgewater Y.C. annual regatta in NAN TOO, his first victory at the club in several years. WEE LOVETT TOO finished second with Bill Irwin's PIPE DREAM third. Ten boats participated in the 10-12 knot southeast wind.

Report of the Annual Port Clinton Regatta held on Lake Erie on August 19th and 20th. Seven Thistles competed with detailed results showing race finishes and total points for each boat.

The District Secretary announces that the 1951 Lake Erie District Eliminations will be held at Mentor Harbor Yacht Club on Saturday, August 4th and Sunday, August 5th, with full details to be forthcoming.

Tony Herrmann reports on the Lake Michigan District Championships held with a championship series and consolation series. Three races were sailed over 7-mile and 6 1/4-mile courses. Herrmann's STICKERS (32) won the championship series, and Tony Herrmann was elected the new District Secretary.

The Second Annual Icebreaker Series was held on October 8 at Detroit River in front of Bayview Yacht Club. Two races were sailed in rain and light air, with current causing trouble for several sailors. Despite weather challenges, the event was well-attended with lunch provided.

The annual Edgewater Yacht Club Frostbite Series was held October 14-15 with three races. Harvey Busch won the series with two firsts and a second in NAN TOO, with Ken Glory second in WEE WIN and Emery Kampe third in NATURE BOY.

Young Tony Herrmann Jr., 15-year-old son of THISTLE Class President, won the Lake Michigan Penguin Fall Championships with four firsts and never finishing lower than third. Top sailors from four states competed in the seven-race series.

Stu Robinson announces the Lake Michigan District Eliminations will be held at the Racine Yacht Club on August 5th and 6th. All Thistles are invited; contact Bill Fraser for reservations.

Lake Erie District announces plans for the Rocky River THISTLE Fleet No. 1's racing season, including an invitation regatta at Cleveland Yachting Club and new boat entries to the fleet.

Report from Lake Erie District Championship held on the Hudson River in New York on August 9-10. Dick Brainard of Mystic Cove dominates the competition by winning all three races in the championship series.

Brief report on Lake Michigan District Championships hosted by Racine Yacht Club with limited details available at press time. Tony Hermann won in CROCUS with R. Snyder and Stan Coakis in second and third place.

Bud LeBoutillier won the Seneca Canoe Club Trophy after a thrilling series of races involving various national level watercraft competing at the Canoe Club Invitational Regatta.

Racine Yacht Club will host the Lake Michigan District Thistles for their district championship series on July 25-26, with races determining which four Thistles qualify for the National Championship in August. A business meeting will also be held to elect district officers.

Bill Nexsen won the Lake Erie District Championship in his boat Glue Pot. The Bagpipe received no official report on this event.

Leo Wubbe played the light shifty airs to take the Michiana District Championship series in July at Grosse Pointe Yacht Club in Michigan. Eleven boats participated in the series with mostly local skippers except for visitors from Walton's Lake and Niles, Michigan.

Howard Boston, the current National Champion, won first place with 111 points in the 6th Annual Detroit River Ice Breaker Series held in October. Participants came from Ohio, Michigan, and other distant locations. The races were held in light air with intermittent rain.

The 1954 Lake Erie District Championships will be held July 17-18 at the Mentor Harbor Yacht Club in Mentor, Ohio. Fleet 9 offers the best accommodations. Reservations must be received by July 10 with a check for lodging costs ($7-$10 per couple per night).

Bill Nexsen won the Lake Erie District Championship in his boat, taking advantage of favorable conditions and smart sailing to earn the title.

Results table from the Lake Erie District Eliminations showing the standings of competing boats and skippers.

Bill Heintz, President of the Thistle Class Association, won the first Great Lakes Thistle Championship at Rochester in three races on Lake Ontario. Competing against 38 boats from across the country in light to fresh breeze conditions, Heintz demonstrated superior skills and won by combining strong finishes across all three races.

Final race results for the 1955 Great Lakes Thistle Championship regatta held at Rochester, listing all 38 boats with their finishing positions and cumulative point totals across three races.

Brief notices of recent championship wins: George Butts won the Lake Erie District Championship Regatta, and Sam Merrick won the New Jersey District Championships. Details and National Championship results will be published next month.

Dick Gibbs won the frostbite series competition at Toledo Yacht Club on June 4-5, with Bill Nexsen and Neil Patzer in second place in the "Glue Pot," and Jim Holewinski in third.

The Lake Erie District held its annual meeting at Rocky River, Ohio on February 13, 1955. Members voted to limit entries in the District Championship Series and discussed coordinating regional regattas to reduce travel burdens. The district championships will be held at Rocky River on July 23-24.

The first Great Lakes Thistle Championship is scheduled for July 9-10 at Rochester, New York at the Rochester Canoe Club. Lake Erie is the original home of the Thistle with strong competition expected. Arrangements are in the hands of Commodore Bob Russell, Fleet Captain Jack Williams, and others. Approximately 50 boats are expected to enter.

A comprehensive calendar of Lake Erie District regatta events from June through October 1955, including specific dates, locations, and race names.

Report of Fleet No. 1's Lake Erie District Championship won by George Butts of the Sandusky Sailing Club. The regatta featured breezy conditions, competitive racing among top contenders, and innovative race management techniques.

Report of the Lake Michigan District Championship regatta held at Decatur, Illinois, won by Tony Hermann. The event featured good weather, competitive racing, and notable performances by various skippers.

The Nationals will be held for the first time at Seneca Lake in Geneva, New York at the famed Finger Lakes. Planning has begun with measurements, board meetings, and the traditional awards banquet scheduled for Friday.

Report on the Lake Erie District Championships held July 13-14 off Rocky River in Lake Erie, with detailed race results and standings. Jim Hendrickson sailing "Black Jack" won the championship.

Report on the Great Lakes Thistle Championships held in conjunction with the 31st annual Sandusky Bay Regatta with 40 Thistle entries, won by Jim Hendricksen with 116 points, and detailed standings for all competitors.

Announcement of Detroit River Fleet 2's second annual Spring Shakedown race scheduled for May 26, 1957, with details on location and race logistics.

Race results from the Snowball Regatta at Buckeye Lake showing Dick Durfee winning overall, with details of individual race placements for eight boats.

Report on the 1958 Detroit Thistle Fleet 2 races, with Herb Mainwaring winning the season series. Results table shows detailed standings across multiple race series.

Report on Lake Michigan District races held at Springfield Lake in Illinois in August 1957. Thirteen Thistle entries competed in varying wind conditions, with detailed race results showing placement and points scored across three races.

Fleet #1 at the Cleveland Yachting Club will host the Great Lakes Championships, limiting eligibility to the top 25% of each fleet to ensure keen competition. The event will feature meals, social events, and the famous OVC fast beer boats that meet each boat crossing the finish line.

The Lake Erie Districts regatta was held July 12 & 18 at Mentor Harbor Yachting Club. Saturday's race was postponed due to gun problems but eventually completed, with George Butts and Harvey Busch winning the day. Harvey Busch won the overall event with a 3/4 point lead.

Report of Lake Champlain Club's first fall regatta featuring Ed Rust of Williamstown, Massachusetts winning with decisive performance in light airs and a triangular race course over Outer Bay.

The Lake Michigan District Championship was held in Lake Springfield, Illinois on August 2-3, 1958. Roger Brett won the championship followed by Douglas Wake in second place with detailed race-by-race results presented in tabular form.

The Michiana District Championship Series was held on Lake Michigan with Howard Boston winning first place, Douglas Wake second, and Herb Mainwaring third. The event featured 24 boats from five fleets representing the Detroit, Eagle Lake, and Indianapolis racing communities. Detailed race-by-race narrative describes challenging wind conditions and tactical competition.

The Great Lakes Championships were held at the Cleveland Yachting Club July 19-20 with a 25 mph breeze combining with 8-foot seas. The races featured strong competition with top skippers qualifying for next year's championship, and despite the challenging conditions, several severe attacks of seasickness afflicted inland lake skippers.

Michiana Fleet Two is starting an active season with multiple scheduled races, demonstrating early eagerness to get boats in the water and begin competition.

Jim Hendricksen won the 1959 Lake Erie District Championships held on Presque Isle Bay on July 11-12, with his boat 'Blac Jack' scoring 12¾ points. The event attracted 45 boats from locations as far as Louisville, Kentucky, sailed over a modified Gold Cup Course.

The Michigan District Championships were held July 11th and 12th at Crescent Sail Yacht Club, Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan on Lake St. Clair. Jerry Jenkins won with boat number 1228, scoring 2 points in the first race. Herb Mainwaring was re-elected District Secretary at a Bayview Yacht Club meeting.

James Hendricksen, Sandusky's veteran Thistle Class sailor, won the second Great Lakes Championship held August 1 and 2 at Sandusky Bay. Competing against 52 other starters, Hendricksen achieved first, fifth, and eighth place finishes for 13¾ total points, succeeding previous champions from earlier years.

Detailed schedule of Lake Erie District Thistle Invitational regattas for 1959, organized by month with fleet numbers, host clubs, and dates throughout June through October.

Ron Rust won the Fall Invitational regatta at Lake Champlain for the second consecutive year, sailing in challenging conditions at Mallett's Bay near Burlington, Vermont.

A report on the successful first season of the Michiana District's newest fleet, Fleet 87 at Bloomington, Indiana, with 12 races held and plans for expansion in the coming year.

Dick Royce captured first place hardware in the annual Snowball Regatta at Buckeye Lake near Columbus, Ohio with his boat MACHTNIGHT. The cool weather and high wind conditions made for an interesting ten-boat regatta with interesting tactical contests.

The Michiana District's newest fleet, No. 87 at Bloomington, Indiana, wound up its first season with the 1st Annual Dinner of the organization. Fleet Captain Ted Deppe was elected, and the fleet had a successful year with multiple races and strong participation.

At Crescent Sail Yacht Club, H.J. Mainwaring dominated the Spring Schnak regatta opening the season with a near-runaway sweep despite damp conditions. Jerry Jenkins and other top skippers attended but were overshadowed by Mainwaring's exceptional performance.

Skip Boston sailed off with the Michiana District championship June 12 in a demonstration of superior sailing. With two national champions (Jerry Jenkins and Howard Boston) in the district, the large qualifying fleet for the upcoming Nationals promises close competition.

Three important schedule changes and additions were announced for fall regatta planning. Lake Champlain has one fall regatta, Lake District has multiple events in September and October, and Martowyn Races are scheduled for late September.

Jerry White and his crew from Pittsburgh Yacht Club, along with Kalyea as crew, sailed a consistently strong series to win the Great Lakes Thistle championship at a regatta hosted by the Erie Yacht Club. The article details multiple races with changing wind conditions and competitive placings.

George Butts of Sandusky Sailing Club piloted his yellow Thistle "Flapoo" to victory in the Lake Erie District championship, winning on Saturday at Sandusky bay. The article details the competitive racing with notable participants and first trophy awards.

Tuning up for his victory in the 1960 Nationals, Bruce Goldsmith sailed out to the Lake Michigan District championships at Desoto, Illinois, July 30-31. Roger Brett was second with Ed Walton third in the competitive championship racing.

Harry White from Pymantung Yacht Club sailed his white boat to win the 1960 Great Lakes Thistle championship held at Erie Yacht club on July 23-24. Perfect sailing weather kept the lucky break factor minimal while his experienced crew and boat handling proved decisive.

George Butts of Sandusky Sailing club piloted his yellow Thistle 'Pileup' to an unsquested victory in the Lake Erie District championships held July 9 and 10 in Sandusky. Butts took first in the first race and demonstrated consistent performance throughout the series.

Bruce Goldsmith sailed off with the Lake Michigan District championships at Decatur, Illinois on July 30-31, with Roger Brett second and Bill Walton third. Goldsmith's success continues his winning streak across multiple district championships in 1960.

The Racine Yacht Club Governing Board approved modifications to bylaws, splitting the Lake Erie district into separate entities. New classes were authorized for numbered fleets, and aluminum masts were approved with specific specifications. Discussion of boat registration, charter modifications, and membership classifications also took place.

Report on the Governing Board meeting where the Lake Erie District was split into two smaller districts, and new fleet classifications were implemented. The G-Board voted on several governance and membership changes for the Association.

Detailed account of the 1961 National Championship races at Lake Michigan, featuring day-by-day race narratives and descriptions of the challenging sailing conditions and competitive field.

Harold Kiotz (1) sailing in the Lake Erie Districts placed second in the 2nd race, notably sailing without striking the mark. Bob DeRue (1210) won the Erie District Championship, narrowly defeating Jim Miller (1233) and winning the series.

Lake Springfield, Illinois hosted the Lake Michigan District Championship July 1-2. Bruce Goldsmith (632) won first place, followed by Blase Lisier (1149) in second, with Bob Kaiser (1149) taking third.

Report on the Lake Michigan District Championship held at Lake Springfields in July, where National Champ Bruce Goldsmith (832) finished first and Bob Kaiser (1149) and Bill Walton took second and third.

Frank Russell (769) sailing BLACK BART won the Great Lakes Thistle Championship in a 7-point victory. The event featured a 3-mile equilateral triangle course on Pierre Isle Bay, with 45 Thistles competing over two days.

Results from the 1961 Michigan Districts Crescent Yacht Club regatta held July 1-2 at Detroit. Les Sutton (510) won first place, followed by comprehensive race results for all participating boats.

Report on the Great Lakes Thistle Championship where Frank Russell (769) sailed BLACK BART to victory, defeating National Champion Bruce Goldsmith. The event was held at Presque Isle Bay, Erie, PA with 45 boats competing.

1961 Michigan Districts Championship at Crescent Y.C. in Detroit where Lee Sutton won the championship with detailed race results.

The Annual Michigan Regatta was held at Diamond Lake, Cassopolis, Michigan July 8-9, 1961. Sponsored by Diamond Lake Yacht Club and Lake Yacht Club with comprehensive race results from many participants.

Forty-three boats competed in the Lake Erie-East District Thistles championship at the Cleveland Yachting Club in July with James Miller sailing to a decisive 1-1-2 series victory. The report describes tactics, wind conditions, and the competitive nature of this important regional championship.

Report on the Lake Erie West District Championship at Sandusky where Paul Berry won decisively with a first place finish in the opening race. Berry's tactical sailing and boat handling demonstrated his superior seamanship in challenging wind conditions.

Report of a regatta at Lake Erie where Frank Russell won in his Thistle #789, demonstrating superior sailing technique in challenging conditions. Russell's victory over experienced competitors showed his refined boat handling and competitive sailing abilities.

Paul Berry (1630) picked up the Lake Erie West District Championship at Sandusky on July 15th. Berry took first in the first race and maintained a competitive position throughout the series. The event featured 38 Thistles in generally light to moderate winds.

At the 24th annual Michiana Regatta held July 14th and 15th at Eagle Lake Yacht Club in Bloomington, Michigan, LaFollette dominated with strong showings. Results include finishes from LaFollette, Borough, Pearson, Matoleski, Otter, Pretzel, Worley, Wilson, Maclean, White, and Wissmann.

Jack LaFollette won the 24th annual Michiana Regatta held at Eagle Lake Yacht Club with favorable sailing conditions. The results show LaFollette's boat 1089 winning the series, with boats from C-scrows, Snipes, and Nationals also competing.

Ed Walsh, 1961 National Thistle Champion from Delaware, N.J., won the 1962 Great Lakes Championship held at Erie Yacht Club. The defending champion Frank Russell was forced out in the first race but Thistle racing remains competitive. Walsh scored consistently with a 1st, 1st, and 2nd for the series, showcasing excellent seamanship.

Ed Walsh, 1961 National Thistle Champion from Delano, N.J. used his winning ways by ousting the 1962 Great Lakes Thistle Championship held at the Erie Yacht Club, Erie, Pennsylvania in July. Walsh and his wife defeated 42 boats in some of the best sailors in the Thistle-regions national championships by running the title.

Lake Michigan District eliminations held June 30-July 1, 1962, saw Phelps winning with a comprehensive boat-by-boat listing showing 39 contestants and their placements across multiple races.

Phelps won the Lake Michigan Districts regatta held June 30-July 1, 1962. Complete race results with various skippers from the region competing across multiple races.

Herb Mainwaring won the Michiana District Championship at Crescent Sail Yacht Club in July with tight competition, followed by Meno in second place. Prevailing light winds led to a four-race format with tactical racing determining the results.

Herb Mainwaring won the Michiana District Championship at Crescent Sail Yacht Club on July 7. Mainwaring and Meno both competed with only one point separating them after the first two races. Mainwaring took first in the first two races and won the championship.

Herb Mainwaring (761) won the Michiana District Championship at Oregon Sail Yacht Club on July 7. In only one spare interval between boats Sutton (510) and Meno (1751) took second and third. Mainwaring demonstrated quick sailing in light winds, with the fleet getting only four races due to light conditions.

Eugene George won the Lake Michigan District Championship at Forts July 17 in the first regatta in his new fiberglass GINGER. George's strong performance in variable conditions and excellent boat handling secured his victory over multiple competitors.

Eugene George won the Lake Michigan District Championship on June 7 in his new fiberglass boat GINGER. The race featured challenging light winds and tactical racing, with George winning the 1962 Delta Districts at Galveston and competing well in both wind conditions.

Eugene George (1650) won the Lake Michigan District Championship at Pewis Dry in the first regatta in his new fiberglas GINGER. George won the 1968 Delta District and is now transitioning from the waves and wind of the Gulf to the gentle area of the Illinois river to post seventh and seventh in the fourth and second in the Championship.

Ken Wilson won the Erie Open Regatta at Erie Yacht Club in June, demonstrating versatile sailing in light and shifty wind conditions against strong competition from other notable Thistle sailors.

Ken Wilson sailing Jim Miller's boat won first place overall in the Erie Open Regatta for the Thistle Class on June 8-9 at Erie Yacht Club. Harry White and John Proctor were close behind, with light air and shifting wind conditions.

Ken Wilson (1288) sailing Jim Miller's old boat, Look, finished first place overall in the Erie Open Regatta for the Thistle Class on 8th and 9th of June at the Yacht Club. Among competitors, Harry White (1717) placed just 1/2 points behind the first place boat. Two other well-known Thistle sailors did well that weekend.

Description of the Olympic Style Race Course used during summer 1961 at Ovieland Yacht Club on Lake Erie, explaining the eight-mark course design with equal distances and how boats are identified and course numbers assigned.

Richard Otter of Eagle Lake won the Michiana Regatta held at Diamond Lake on July 30 and 31 with a near-perfect score of two wins and a second. Jack LaFollette of Indianapolis finished second, while Bill Borough took third place.

The Lake Erie West District regatta sponsored by Fleet 65 (Cowan Lake) was held on Sandusky Bay July 13-14. Tom Wilson won the event, with George Butts second and Bill Cunnings third, sailing in moderate winds with a double triangle course that tested all competitors.

Bob Kaiser posted his fourth consecutive victory at the Great Lakes Championship at Racine July 20 and 21 by finishing fourth, third, and second for a decisive win. Jack Wanenmacher took second and Herb Zimmers third, with Kaiser and Zimmers demonstrating mastery of the shifting wind conditions.

Report on the Lake Erie West District race held on Sandusky Bay July 13-14. Tom Wilson won with two wins and a third, with details of race conditions and results for top finishers.

Report on the Great Lakes Championship at Racine July 20-21. Bob Kaiser showed consistency and improvement to win with a fourth, third, and second place finishes. Details race conditions and skippers' strategies throughout the competition.

Report on the Diamond Jubilee Regatta held on Diamond Lake in Cassopolis, Michigan, where Bill Borough won the event. The article includes race results and information about participating fleets.

Local skipper Bill Borough won the Diamond Jubilee Regatta held at Diamond Lake, Cassopolis, Michigan in September. The regatta featured two Saturday afternoon races with light and steady winds within the two-hour time limit.

Report on the Erie Open Regatta at Presque Isle where Jon Carriel won multiple races while other skilled sailors competed, with analysis of wind conditions and sailing strategies.

Comprehensive technical guide to sailing Lake Erie, covering race course location, water conditions, weather patterns, and strategic advice for sailors preparing for championship racing.

Comprehensive article about the 1964 Nationals at Lake Erie, covering the Cleveland Yachting Club location, detailed weather and wave conditions expected, wind patterns, current behavior, and sailing strategies specific to the lake. Includes technical information about the racing location and environmental factors.

A personal narrative account of the author's experience racing at the Lake Erie District Championships, describing challenging wind and weather conditions, boat handling difficulties, and the eventual rescue after their Thistle capsized, with lighthearted reflections on the experience.

Personal account of a capsize during the Lake Erie West District Championships. A newcomer to Thistles experiences a wild ride and spinnaker problems leading to capsizing and rescue.

Photo essay showing scenes from Dead Man's Island testing and Thistles sailing on Lake Erie during the National Championship.

Account of the Michiana Thistle District regatta in Michigan City where Howard Boston won with strong sailing. Features wind conditions of 12-20 knots and competitive racing with various fleet members achieving strong placings.

Report of the Michiana Thistle District regatta at Michigan City Yacht Club with Howard Boston's victory and coverage of challenging weather and race conditions.

Report of the Lake Erie West District Championship where Jim Hendricksen sailing the Blac Jac (231) won with strong competition from Bobby White and others. Racing at Lake Erie featured challenging conditions with wind shifts of nearly 180 degrees.

Ted Hinsworth piloting Black Jack won the District Championship at Lake Erie West, with details of challenging sailing conditions and the decisive margin of victory.

Article about Ilmar sailing the Palm-Leis winning the Lake Michigan District Championship. Describes winning racing performance and competitive results from the district event.

Ilmar Palm-Leis won the Lake Michigan Thistle Championship in steady winds with strong competition from other skilled sailors throughout the regatta.

Report on the Great Lakes Championship held by Fleet 3 at Sandusky where Lockwood won the competition. Features results from three races with various fleet members competing.

Report of the Great Lakes Championship regatta hosted by Fleet 3 at Sandusky on July 18-19, 1964, with Lockwood's victory and results from the three races.

A race report detailing the results of the Nationals regatta on Lake Erie where E. Walsh dominated with superior boat handling and sailing tactics in various wind conditions.

Brief listing of winners of district championship races held during the season, including Lake Michigan, Lake Erie West, and other regional competitions.

Regatta report detailing the Lake Erie East Districts competition where Jim Miller with SPIRIT (1776) topped the standings. Reports on other top finishers and analyzes the competitive nature of the three-day, five-race championship format used by this district.

Brief regatta report on Lake Erie West Districts championship won by Ed Fracker, mentioning his victory and competitive standing.

Race report of the Lake Erie East Districts competition featuring J. Miller winning over competitors like Dailey, Frisell, and others in a multi-race series.

Report of the Lake Michigan District Championship held on Lake Jacomo in Kansas City, July 10-11, where Bill Walton (447) won the championship. The article describes the tuneup races, weather conditions, and competitive results.

The LEW Districts were hosted by the North Cape Yacht Club with Bob White as fleet captain. The regatta featured excellent harbor facilities and close racing competition.

Report on the LEW (Lake Erie West) Districts regatta held at North Cape Yacht Club in Toledo, Ohio. Bob White won the district championship, with detailed final standings provided.

Defending Champion Ted Fontelieu successfully retained the Great Lakes Thistle Championship title despite challenging wind and weather conditions.

The Michiana Districts Championship was shortened due to weather, with Dick Gallmeyer winning in a contest shortened to two races.

Report on the Michiana Districts Championship where Dick Gallmeyer won with his boat. A line squall brought the scheduled three-race series down to two races due to severe weather.

Calhoun reports on the centennial "Hundred and Twentieth Fourth Weekend" sailing event at Lake Norman in October 1966. Ed Walsh, a two-time National Champion, won the series with a consistent 2-2 record, followed by Jack Brown and W.L. Tumlin.

Report on the Lake Norman Regatta where Ed Walsh (1818) secured his 104th race victory, describing the sailing conditions and technical details of the racing event.

Bill Fleming reports on the Lake Erie West District Championship where Paul Berry won the series using a four-race format successfully against Bill Larsen and other top competitors.

Bob Backus reports on the 1967 Lake Michigan District Championship at Racine, Wisconsin, where Herb Whittall won the series with strong performance throughout the races.

Report on the Lake Erie West District Championship held on July 8-9. Dick Haupt won the event with a series of strong performances in light and shifting breezes. The article details the racing conditions and key tactical moments.

Report on the Lake Michigan Districts Championship held at Racine, Wisconsin. Herb Whittall won the event, which featured unusual light breezes and fog that troubled the skippers. The racing included a second and third place finish by other competitors.

Report on the Michiana Districts Championship held at Crescent Sail Club. Devlin won the event with consistent racing, followed by Boston in second place. The article describes the starting conditions and competitive nature of the races.

Report on the Fifth Annual Prairie Creek Regatta held at Highland Park, Illinois. Marlin Abramson won the event with a 7-2-1 record across the series. The article details the three-race event sailed in brisk winds.

Detailed technical guide to wind and water conditions on Lake Erie, the venue for the 1967 Nationals. Provides practical sailing advice for handling shallow water dynamics, wave patterns, and weather systems that sailors can expect.

Practical guidance for sailing Thistles on Lake Erie at the upcoming Nationals. The article describes the lake's shallow characteristics, typical wind patterns, current conditions, and strategies for successful racing.

A comprehensive report of the Great Lakes Thistle Championship held at Crescent Sail Yacht Club in Detroit, Michigan. The article details three challenging races in unpredictable wind conditions and includes a complete set of race results and standings.

Report of the Great Lakes Thistle Championship held at Crescent Sail Yacht Club in Detroit, Michigan on July 15 and 16. Larry Haupt won the championship through competitive sailing across three races in shifting winds. Detailed race narrative and final results are provided.

A detailed race report of the 1-4-1-7 championship series sailed by Jim Miller (1776) as he competed with the top finishers for the Lake Erie East championship crown. The article describes how typical light and variable July airs mixed things up, with the most consistent finishers ultimately determining the winner.

A race report on Jim Miller's dominating performance in the L.E.E. (Lake Erie Easts) championship series sailed in typical light and variable July conditions. The article describes Miller's tactical mastery across three races in variable wind conditions.

Race report on Fleet 16's Frostbite Regatta in early November with 40 families camping and sailing on Silver Lake with colorful descriptions of the fleet's winter activities.

Detailed report of the Fleet 16 Frostbite Regatta held in early November at Turkeyfoot Lake, describing challenging weather conditions with rain, snow, and low temperatures that tested sailor endurance and boat performance.

Reports and race results from multiple regattas including the Cedar Point Invitational won by Ted Fontelieu and the Lake Erie West Districts series won by Gerry Ficks. Includes detailed race results tables and narrative accounts of racing conditions.

Report on the Lake Michigan Districts competition held at Illinois Valley Yacht Club in Peoria, Illinois. Covers the challenging racing conditions with winds and the competitive outcomes, including results table.

Race report of the Lake Erie West Districts regatta held at Sandusky Bay, Ohio, where red boats dominated the competition with Ficks finishing first, Fracker second, and Berry third. The article describes variable wind conditions, tactical competition, and performance of leading boats.

Race report from the Michianna regatta held at Eagle Lake Yacht Club where Dick Nelson won the overall competition. The article describes favorable wind conditions and leading boat performance in three races.

Account of Marlin Abramson's victory in the 1968 Great Lakes Championship at Racine, Wisconsin, featuring his sailing skill and the strong performance of Fracker Sails.

Report on the Great Lakes Championship races at Racine, Wisconsin, where Marlin Abramson won the championship. The article describes the racing conditions, course setup, hospitality provided by the host club, and includes complete results from the championship series.

Account of the Michiana District Championships held at St. Joseph, Michigan, where Howdy King won the series with detailed race results and commentary on competitive sailing.

Report on the Michigan Districts Championship races held July 13-14 at St. Joseph, Michigan, where Howdy King won despite challenging wind conditions. The article provides a detailed account of racing tactics and includes complete results from the championship.

Report on the Lake Erie East District championships where Jack Wanenmacher demonstrated superior sailing skill, with detailed race results and commentary on competitive conditions.

Report on the Lake Erie East District Championship races held at Mentor Harbor Yacht Club, Ohio. The article describes Wanenmacher's victory and includes comprehensive results from the district championship series.

Report on the 1969 inaugural Waukegan Fleet invitational regatta, where Marlin Abramson took first place in twenty-six boats from the nearby area in windy conditions.

Race results from the Waukegan Invitational regatta held in Waukegan, Illinois.

Twenty-three Thistles competed in the Eighth Annual Regatta at Erie Yacht Club in Erie, Pennsylvania in June, with considerable variety in weather conditions. Ed Fracker won the Carling Trophy for outstanding performance.

Race results from the Erie Yacht Club Regatta held in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Report on the Turkeyfoot Frostbite Regatta held November 2 in Akron, Ohio, where Gene Wood dominated the 27-boat fleet with consistent winning performances across five races, with detailed results table.

Report on the Turkeyfoot Regatta held in Akron, Ohio where Gene Wood dominated the racing with consistent performance, winning the title.

Report on the Lake Michigan Districts championship at Springfield, Illinois, where Bob Kaiser won overall with consistent performance.

Results and standings from the Lake Michigan Districts Springfield II championship race.

Report on the Lake Erie West Districts championship where Bob White won with superior performance in light wind conditions.

Red Chevron feature reporting on the Michianna District Championship at John Lee Motorsports on June 27, where John Stevenson of Indianapolis won with three straight victories.

Blue Chevron feature covering the Great Lakes Championship party and racing at the 25th anniversary celebration, with dramatic photos and detailed race narrative.

Profile of Jack Bierley, described as a very congenial sailor and Lake Erie East District Champion. Article covers his racing history, approach to sailing, crew selection, boat management, and his dedication to the sport.

Profile of Jack Bierley, Lake Erie East District Champion, highlighting his competitive sailing history, boat modifications, and achievements in Thistle racing throughout the 1960s.

Report on the Lakes Fall Series with participation from 19 boats, held at various locations with excellent conditions. Highlights the Outstanding Award winners and regatta standings.

Comprehensive coverage of fall regatta season across multiple regions, including Lou Wake's Great Fall Series victory and results from various other regattas.

A report on the Lake Michigan Districts championship series at Winnetka where Marlin Abramson demonstrated superior light air sailing skills to win the championship despite variable conditions including drifting races and strategic wind shifts.

Race report from the Turkeyfoot Frostbite Regatta series finale, describing the light wind conditions and competitive racing that culminated in Whit Smith's victory.

Report on the Turkeyfoot Frostbite Regatta where Whit Smith won the final event of the fall series, with excellent sailing conditions and strong competitive racing among fleet participants.

Profile article about Bob White, Lake Erie West District Champion, covering his sailing background, competitive achievements, and personal life story.

Profile of Bob White, an accomplished sailor who won the Lake Erie West District Championship with his boat. The article covers his sailing background, family involvement in sailing, various regatta victories, and his experiences in national competitions.

Report on the Great Lakes Championship regatta where Abramson won the championship for the second consecutive year, with detailed race results and competitor standings.

Complete race results table for the Great Lakes Interdistricts regatta held in Cleveland, Ohio, showing skipper placements across multiple races.

Report on Lake Erie East Districts regatta with detailed race accounts and results, featuring Ed Fracker's strong performance and race standings.

Detailed race results table for the Lake Erie East Districts regatta showing skipper standings across races.

Complete race results table for the Hoover Regatta held in Columbus, Ohio.

Report on the Winnetka Invitational regatta on Lake Michigan where Greiner won, with race descriptions and competitor performance.

Multiple fall regatta reports including Sandy Rapp's Lake Michigan District championship victory, Richmond County Yacht Club Open Regatta results, and Lake Erie East Districts results from fall 1971.

Detailed reports and race results from fall 1971 regattas including Days of Wine and Roses at Pymatuning, Lake Erie East Districts, Caldwell Wins Great Pumpkin, Rim Rice Wine Niagara Frontier Districts, Fontelieu Sweeps Nyack, and Nyack Boat Club Regatta results.

A report on the Lake Erie West Districts regatta won by Bob White, with details on racing conditions and fleet performance.

A report on the Lake Erie East Districts regatta won by Lynn Nye, with details on the competitive sailing conditions and fleet performance at Cleveland, Ohio.

A race report from the Eagle Lake regatta won by Sandy Rapp, highlighting his impressive performance and the first of the seasonal regattas.

A detailed race report from Lake Michigan Districts where Abramson prevailed over strong competition, with fleet results and racing commentary.

Race report from the Lake Fall Series-West regatta where Ren Meissner took first place with a record score, finishing ahead of Terry Alper and other competitors in multiple races.

Brief report on Whitney C. Smith and his Apex group taking honors at the 1972 N.C.Y.C. Fall Blow-Out event.

Report on the Bloody Mary Regatta at Big Lagoon on September 29-30, 1973, where Koblenzee dominated the competition. Details the racing conditions, winners, and final standings in this fall regatta held in a light-wind venue off the northeast coast.

Coverage of the 1974 Indiana Governor's Cup on Lake Monroe won by Cliff Siegel, with details on racing conditions and other top finishers.

Report on the Great Lakes Championship regatta at Mentor Harbor Yacht Club where Pollak (1708) won both the first and second divisions, with comprehensive race results and commentary on the event.

Whit Smith won the prestigious Lake Erie East Fall Series in 1974, with competitive racing featuring strong winds typical of fall conditions. The report includes detailed race results and placements.

Report on the Lake Erie East Fall Series which experienced excellent overall winds, with Whit Smith emerging as the overall winner across multiple regattas held at various locations including Turkeyfoot, Mentor Harbor, and other venues.

Report on the Lake Erie East District Championships with Whit Smith putting together a series of victories across the three-time championships, including detailed race results and final standings.

Terri Hart's report on the Lake Erie East District sailing championship, where Ed Duckworth won with consistent performances. The report covers multiple races and describes wind and water conditions during the competition.

Coverage of the Great Lakes Thistle Championship at Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey, where Bob White took first place with detailed race results and sailing conditions.

Report on Ed Duckworth's victory in the Lake Erie East Districts, describing five race series sailing conditions and finisher results.

Terri Hurst reports on the Lake Erie East District Championship with detailed accounts of multiple races, noting Duckworth's strong performance and analysis of race conditions and tactical decisions.

Report on Cliff Siegh's third Lake Michigan District championship with detailed race results and fleet information.

Race report from Turkeyfoot Lake regatta on October 25, 1975, describing Ed Duckworth's dominant performance in the Barbera Duckworth Invitational. The event featured excellent sailing conditions and high-spirited competition among Thistlers.

Report on the 1975 Lake Erie East Fall Series won by Ed Duckworth, who demonstrated dominant performance throughout the series. Whit Smith describes Duckworth's victories and competitive conditions during the races held at various locations around Lake Erie.

Report on the spring LEE Event regatta where Jack Finefrock emerged as winner despite variable winds and unstable spring weather. The wedding ceremony was held in Holy Family Church in Stow, Ohio, with Father Scott Copeland officiating and recounting sailing-related remarks about future challenges.

Race report of the May 29, 1976 Spring LEE Event at Lake Erie East. Jack Finefrock of Columbus, Ohio won despite variable spring weather. The article details the course, weather conditions, and competitive performances.

Report on the 1976 Indiana Governor's Cup Regatta held at Lake Wawasee and sailed by the Indiana Sailing Association. Howdy King won the event, which featured challenging wind conditions and competition from regional skippers.

Race report of the Spring Fling regatta at Lake Carlyle, Illinois on 1-2 May 1976. Lynn Nye emerged as winner in variable wind conditions with an interesting blend of competitors including families and regular racing sailors.

Personal profile of Larry Gaenzle, the Great Lakes Regional Vice President and a sailor with deep Thistle connections. The article traces his sailing history from childhood through his current involvement in competitive sailing and the Thistle Class.

Report on the Mayor's Cup Regatta held at Lake Leatherwood near Bloomington, Illinois, where Jack Leach won with consistent finishes in the Lake Erie Fall Series.

Report on the Michiana District Championships sailed at Crescent Sail Club in July, where the weather was windy and challenging. Wally Cross won convincingly, beating regional competitors Klein and Clouse.

Report of the Michiana District Championships held at Crescent Sail Club in Cleveland with weather conditions and race results.

Red Chevron Event report from the Michiana District Championships at Crescent Sail Club in July, won by Wally Cross.

Report of the L.E.E. Districts held at Edgewater Yacht Club in Cleveland, Ohio with detailed race conditions and results.

Red Chevron Event report from Lake Erie East District Championships where Jerry Pignolet won, held at Edgewater Yacht Club in Cleveland.

Report on the Lake Michigan District Championships where Cliff Siegh dominated with commanding performances across all races, establishing an unbeatable lead. Detailed race-by-race coverage shows Siegh's tactical superiority.

Report of the Lake Michigan District Championship held at Dressbach in July featuring Cliff Siegh's dominant performance.

Red Chevron Event report from Lake Michigan Districts where Cliff Siegh (3434) dominated the competition held in July.

Race report from South Shore Yacht Club's Frostbite Regatta on Turkeyfoot Lake featuring Bill Craddock's victory and multiple races in crisp, cold conditions.

A regatta report from the South Shore Yacht Club's Frostbite Regatta on Turkeyfoot Lake with race results featuring multiple skippers and their finishing positions.

Great Lakes Championship report showing Larry Klein's competitive performance on Lake Erie with strong winds and multiple race series.

Report on the Canacnoe Regatta held by fleets #10 with variable wind conditions and exciting racing, featuring detailed race results and commentary on competitors' performance.

Report on the Spring Fling regatta held at Lake Michigan District in early May, won by Lynn Nye in inconsistent wind conditions.

Report on the 1977 Great Lakes Thistle Championship held at Lake Superior in Michigan, won by Chris Pollak. Includes weather conditions and race results showing Pollak's dominant performance winning the series with lower point scores than the field.

Chris Pollak won the Great Lakes Thistle Championship at a regatta reminiscent of Detroit 1972. The two-race final resulted in Pollak winning with competitive racing and typical Great Lakes weather conditions.

Report on the 1977 Great Lakes Thistle Championships where Chris Pollak won the event against a competitive field. The weather for the 1977 Great Lakes Thistle Championships was reminiscent of Detroit in 1972, the last time the Great Lakes Nationals were held to cooperate and never exceeded 6 knots.

Report on the first Lake Arthur Regatta held May 21, 1977 in Pennsylvania, featuring beautiful winds and exciting racing, with John Henry winning. Details the two races held as well as post-race activities and recognition of host club facilities.

Account of John Henry's victory in the first Lake Arthur Thistle Fleet (LEE) regatta held May 21-22, 1977. The two-day event included competitive racing and featured exciting spinnaker duels and close finishes between multiple boats.

Report on the first Lake Arthur Thistle Regatta held on May 21, 1977 near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where John Henry won with strong participation from local Thistle fleets.

Profile of Ed Duckworth, longtime Thistle sailor and regional vice president, covering his sailing history, family involvement, and competitive achievements across multiple fleets.

Race report of the Gay 90's Regatta championship held on Lakes Erie West District, with results showing Bob White's strong finish.

A race report on the Michiana District Championships where Klein showed exceptional versatility with three first-place finishes across different wind conditions and race situations.

Report on Beihl's winning the Lake Michigan Chevron races, competing against strong regional competition. Details multiple race finishes and competitive sailing conditions.

Comprehensive guide to sailing conditions at Lake Erie and the Cleveland Yachting Club, including information about currents, waves, thermal weather patterns, and windward sailing strategies specific to the Nationals course.

Introduction to Lake Erie sailing conditions and Cleveland-area information for participants in the 1978 Nationals regatta to be held in August at the Cleveland Yachting Club.

Report on Lake Erie West District Championship with favorable wind conditions and competitive racing among top sailors. Greg Fisher's strategic sailing and strong performance led to victory.

Report on Michiana District Championship sailing at Cedar Sail Yacht Club, where Larry Klein achieved dominant performance with impressive scores across all races.

Report on the Lake Erie West Districts Championship where Greg Fisher dominated with four consecutive wins and strong performances throughout.

Fuller Moore reports on the Lake Erie West District Championship, where Greg Fisher prevailed in strong weather and challenging conditions. Details race outcomes and skipper performances through the series.

T.K. Lowry reports on the Michiana District Championship held at Crescent Sail Yacht Club in July. Larry Klein sailed his newcomer, Ed Palm, to victory over other seasoned competitors. The article details multiple races and skipper performances throughout the weekend.

Report of the Lake Erie West Spring Series inaugural event at Alum Creek Reservoir in central Ohio, with race details and results from the competition.

Race report from the 8th annual Old Salty regatta at Lake Norman Yacht Club on September 8-10, 1978, with Art Evans achieving victory in competitive racing conditions.

Race report from the Hoover Fall Regatta on September 16 and 17, describing moderate winds and varying race conditions with detailed results.

Race report from the Great Lakes Regatta hosted by the Rochester Canoe Club, describing eighty competitors and competitive results.

Report on the Hoover Fall Regatta held in Columbus, Ohio, featuring challenging wind conditions and competitive racing throughout three race series.

Report on the Lee Fall Series regatta held with multiple races, featuring intense competition and detailed race descriptions of wind and tactical conditions.

Report on the Great Lakes regatta hosted at Rochester Canoe Club with 80 participating Thistles, featuring multiple race results and winner Klein.

Race report from the Flathead Lake regatta. Describes the racing conditions and results, with Westover taking the victory.

Detailed report of the Great Lakes Championship regatta won by Mark Gilliland in a close tie-breaker competition, with race-by-race analysis and final standings.

Report from Great Lakes Interdistricts Championship where Mark Gilliland (2995) narrowly defeated Tom Glover (2989) in a dramatic tie-breaking finish, with both skippers putting in exceptional performances.

Lake Erie East District Championship at Pymatuning Yacht Club where a computer analysis determined Jack Finefrock as the new district champion with a steady record of strong finishes.

Lake Erie West District championship held at Vermilion Boat Club where Fisher claimed the title through a tiebreaker series after competing successfully throughout the regatta.

Reports from Lake Erie East, Lake Erie West, Pymatuning, and other Great Lakes district competitions.

Fair Haven Invitational held on Lake Ontario where variable wind conditions and shifting weather patterns created challenging racing, with multiple boats competing for top positions.

Wedding announcement for a Thistle sailing couple uniting the Lake Erie East and Lake Erie West fleets through their marriage.

Report on the Great Lakes Interdistrit Championships at Vermilion Boat Club, where 48 boats competed in challenging conditions with experienced sailors dominating.

Regatta report from Red Chevron Event Lake Erie East District Championship, with Sackett Socks winning the event with details on wind conditions and notable competitor performances.

Glover describes Kurt Finnie's victory in the Lake Erie West Spring Series Event on Charles Mill Lake. Finnie won all three races despite close competition from Kirk and Weihtman, with several lead changes throughout the regatta.

Glover reports on the Alum Creek Fleet Challenge Regatta where Tom Hubbell (3652) took the individual honors along with Champ Glover, John Lowry and Mark Hess to lead the fleet challenge regatta. The regatta was sailed on a sunny day with moderate winds and provided an excellent dinnertime celebration with warm southern hospitality.

Report on the Michiana Championship Regatta held at Edge Lake, Michigan in September where Dick Otter repeated his championship victory with strong consistent sailing throughout the event.

Report of the Hoover Thistle Regatta held September 7-8 with thirty-five boats competing. Columbus-area sailors dominated, with Greg Fisher winning overall after several races. The event featured excellent food and entertainment, with skippers noting songs from decades past during the Saturday night celebration.

Report of the Lake Michigan Districts held July 13-14 at Lake Michigan's Kenosha Yacht Club, Fleet 134. Heavy weather with 25-30 knot winds and gusts to 35-40 forced the abandonment of races, though two races eventually started. Results show competitive racing with Mark Kettleson, Peter Dickinson, and Michael Pobar leading.

Detailed report of the Lake Erie East District Fall Series held in September. Multiple regattas at various locations including Berlin Lake and Atwood, with emphasis on changing weather conditions and competitive racing. Covers skippers' performances and social activities.

Race report from the 20th annual Glimmerglass Regatta held on Otsego Lake near Cooperstown, New York in September. The regatta featured early morning winds that shifted, with variable conditions throughout both days, resulting in competitive racing.

Report on the 46th annual Michiana Championship Regatta held at Eagle Lake, featuring strong competition between Indianapolis and Goguac yacht clubs with detailed race results.

A race report from the 1987 Lake Erie West District Championship at Sandusky Bay where Champ Glover won in strong winds and challenging conditions, with race results showing close competition.

A race report from the Great Lakes Championship at Crescent Sail Yacht Club where Lovett won the three-race series in light to moderate winds with competitive racing and good hospitality.

Report on the 1988 Great Lakes Championship held at Rochester Canoe Club, with 55 boats from across the region competing. Details race conditions, notable performances, and the championship's significance within the Great Lakes Fleet.

Report on the Lake Michigan District Championship held at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, where Jerry Ruffolo successfully defended his title from 1987, with details of challenging weather conditions and the winning performance.

Report from the September 10-11, 1988 Hoover Regatta in Columbus, Ohio where Chuck Steigerwald won with 30 boats competing. Includes detailed race commentary and final race results.

Report on the June 17-18 Lake Erie East Districts regatta held in Berlin, Virginia with cool and unstable winds. The event featured a variety of participating sailing styles and skill levels, with competition results and organizational notes.

Report from the April 9-10 Dinghy Frostbite - Rush Creek regatta. Three races held in light air and challenging conditions with variable winds. Tom Glover dominated the event with first place finishes in multiple races.

An announcement for the Great Lakes Championships to be held July 7-9, 1989 at Cleveland Yachting Club on Lake Erie, featuring five planned races, family-friendly activities, and housing/babysitting provisions.

Report of the 1989 Thistle Great Lakes Championship held in Cleveland with 45 boats, featuring detailed race results, weather conditions, and performance highlights from the multi-day event at Cedar Point Yacht Club.

Report of the Lake Erie West District Regatta held June 24-25, 1989 at Jolly Roger Sailing Club with 24 boats, describing favorable racing conditions and race winners throughout the weekend.

Report on the Lake Michigan Districts regatta held July 15-16, 1989, hosted by Ilmar and Carol Palmeis of Decatur, Illinois, with race results and awards.

Report on the Lake Erie East Teaching/Learning Challenge held June 1 & 2 at Pymatuning YC in Pennsylvania, where experienced and novice sailors practiced boat handling skills in a low-pressure environment.

Report on the Lake Erie East Districts held at Lorain Sailing Club in Ohio, featuring 22 participating Thistles and various race results.

Report on the Lake Erie West Junior District Regatta held June 29 at Hoover Yacht Club, featuring junior sailors competing and finishing their event successfully.

Report on the Lake Erie West District Championship held at Hoover Yacht Club with 47+ Thistles competing in Championship and Challenger divisions.

Arrow reports on the Lake Michigan district regatta held on Lake Springfield where 17 boats participated. Conditions started light but improved, with close racing and several position changes throughout the day.

Palmer reports on the Broken Crank Regatta held on Lake Michigan in September, which was won by Steve Lavender. He describes the challenging sailing conditions and notes the regatta's historical significance and traditions.

Ryan reports on the Hoover Regatta held on Lake Erie. He provides a detailed listing of competitors and race results, noting Kurt Finnie's overall victory and highlighting individual crew performances.

Joy Martin announces the location and details of the 1993 Thistle Great Lakes Championship Regatta at Seneca Lake in Geneva, New York. She provides geographical information about the lake and its advantages for sailing, and encourages sailors to participate in this East-meets-Midwest regatta opportunity.

Betsy Yingling reports on the 1992 Lake Erie Fall Series, which featured races at six different locations with strong participation from multiple fleets. The series culminated in competition at multiple venues with various winners, highlighting the diversity of sailors and competitive conditions throughout the season.

Graul reports on the 1993 Lake Michigan District Championship at Sturgeon Bay where Jerry Ruffolo of Kenosha won the event. The article covers the competition format and outcomes of the race committee's work.

Robert Royce describes the Great Pond Championship held at Cowan Lake in Ohio where Lawrence (Andy Lawrence) won the event with strong performances throughout, with detailed race results and competitor highlights.

A report on the Lake Erie West Districts regatta held at Cowan Lake near Cincinnati, Ohio on June 19-20, 1993, with 21 boats competing in excellent wind conditions and various sailing techniques explored.

Report on Lake Erie West Districts regatta held in Westerville, Ohio, with race results and event details.

Report on the 55th Annual Minneapolis Aquatennial Regatta held at Lake Calhoun with detailed race results and course conditions.

Report of the Lake Michigan Districts regatta held June 24-25 at Winneka Yacht Club featuring high winds and challenging sailing conditions with Doug Slater winning the event.

Report of the Central Southern Interdistricts regatta held May 13-14 at Arkabutla Lake, featuring thirty-eighth anniversary sailing with 72 boats hosted competing across multiple classes.

Report of the Fall Regatta at Lake Monona with race results, commentary on wind and water conditions, and details about the social activities.

Announcement of new district-wide regatta series for Lake Michigan District with scoring system designed to encourage participation and determine championship standings.

Description of seven Lake Erie East Fall Series regattas held across the Great Lakes region, with participation requirements and contact information for additional details.

Stu Martell reports on the Lake Michigan District Championship Regatta in Madison, Wisconsin, held in July 1996, with competitive racing across multiple boats.

Announcement and promotion of the 1997 Great Lakes Championship at Geneva, New York, highlighting the venue's advantages and encouraging East Coast and Midwest sailors to participate.

Report on Lake Erie West District sailing activities, noting the quality of racing and social activity improvements due to weather conditions. Busby discusses fleet activity and the potential for hosting combined events with neighboring districts.

Brief announcements for upcoming Michiana District events including the Michiana Championship in September and other regattas throughout the fall season.

Report on the 1997 Michiana District Championship held in Detroit, where Bruce King claimed victory with Ron Sherry in second place. Jerman describes challenging sailing conditions with light air and chop, highlighting competitive racing and team dynamics.

Bruce Busbey recounts his trip to Minnesota for the Fuzzy Fish Regatta, describing the camaraderie with local fleet members and the memorable sailing experience on a northern lake.

Report from the 1997 Thistle Great Lakes Regatta held at Seneca Yacht Club near Geneva, New York, with description of racing conditions and social events.

Complete results table from the 1997 Great Lakes Championship regatta showing final standings across five races.

Race report from the Lake Livingston regatta where Jim Kincaid dominated with three consecutive first place finishes. Originally named a different title, the event was renamed informally due to the hot conditions.

Report on the Great Lakes Championship held at Crescent Sail Yacht Club in July. Ched Proctor demonstrated consistency throughout the regatta with strong boat handling in varying wind conditions.

Ken Swetka reports on the 1999 Michiana Districts held June 12-13, featuring fifteen Thistle boats in two days of racing with good weather conditions initially but challenging winds on Sunday. The event was held at Lake Saint Clair with tight competition throughout.

Gordon MacDowell reports on the LEE & LEW Districts held June 12-13 at Pymatuning Yacht Club on the Pennsylvania-Ohio border with 34 boats from Lake Erie East and Lake Erie West fleets. Matthew Sessions won overall, with excellent weather and competitive racing.

Matthew Sessions reports on the Great Lakes Championship held in conjunction with Cleveland Yacht Club's Bagatelle regatta with 47 teams from South Carolina to Chicago. Multiple race divisions tested sailors in varied wind and wave conditions over the weekend.

Report on the 1998 Lake Michigan District Championship Regatta held in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin on July 18-19. Steve Lavender won the event, defeating a strong fleet of sailors from across the district.

Report on the 2000 Michiana District Championship held June 3-4 at Lake Monroe Sailing Association in Bloomington, Indiana with 25 boats from seven fleets. Bruce King dominated the series with three red chevrons, while Cowan Lake Fleet 65 participated for the first time.

Report on the Great Lakes Interdistricts held at Carlyle Lake in southern Illinois with 25 boats. Despite light air conditions, Bruce King won consistently, with Steve Lavender second and Bryan Jerman third.

Wisconsin Fleet #178 and the Monona Sailing Club hosted the 2000 Lake Michigan District Championships on July 15-16 on beautiful Lake Monona in Madison. Jack Finefrock won convincingly, with Steve Lavender second and Kevin Arrow third. The competition was tight with no "horizon jobs" and all top four finishers sporting family members as crew.

Comprehensive coverage of the Lake Erie Fall Series, consisting of five regattas held in September and October 2001. The series included events at Hoover YC, Atwood YC, Pymatuning, Cleveland YC, and Crescent Sail Club, culminating in the Fall Finale at Atwood. Detailed race results are provided for all events.

Report on the 2000 Lake Erie Thistle Fall Series featuring seven regattas held from September through October. Tom Hubbell won the overall series, with Jack Finefrock and other top sailors excelling at various events on reservoirs across Ohio and Pennsylvania.

The Glimmerglass Regatta at Otsego Lake in Cooperstown, New York on September 15-16, 2001 featured challenging light and variable winds that kept the race committee changing courses. John Baker won with exceptional consistency, finishing no worse than second in any race.

Thirty-seven boats competed at Hoover Yacht Club near Columbus, Ohio on June 29-30. High pressure dominated with light winds. Bob McNitt won the series with 6 points after three races, with Tom Hubbell second at 15 points. Skip Dieball gave an instructional seminar on boat tuning.

The Lake Erie Spring Series covers regattas in Indiana and Ohio from April through June, with 37 boats at the 8-Ball, 12 at Buckeye Lake, 14 at Lemonaide, 17 at Damful, and multi-race weekends at Berlin and Cowan. Clark Wade emerged as the overall series winner. Multiple venues and conditions showcased consistent sailing.

Seneca Lake and Seneca Yacht Club hosted the Great Lakes regatta on June 8-9 with 43 boats. Eric Gesner won the championship with 19 points despite light air and flat conditions on both days. The event featured excellent social activities including a fireworks display and the traditional bar boat tradition.

A school essay by Vanessa Pegram describing her experience sailing her first regatta at Eagle Lake, where she overcame her fear of capsizing and realized how important she was to the team's success despite not knowing all the nautical terminology.

John Baker won the 2003 Lumberjack Regatta at Tupper Lake, NY with excellent hospitality provided by Susan and Elmer Richards. Mother Nature's 12-17 knot winds produced excellent sailing with 17 boats competing in five races.

The first Lake Michigan Districts were held at Corinthian Yacht Club in Chicago on June 21-22 with thirteen boats from six states. Kevin Arrow won the district championship with consistent boat handling and strategic sailing. The regatta showcased the renovated venue and honored deceased competitor Dave Valla.

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.

Just two weeks before the Nationals, 22 Thistle teams competed in the Great Lakes Championship at Michigan City, Indiana - next year's Nationals host venue. The five-race series featured challenging conditions ranging 5-15 knots with frequent lead changes. Mike Ingham won first place, with Blair Dryden placing second and Bryce Dryden third.

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.

The Glimmerglass Regatta on Otsego Lake near Cooperstown, NY featured friendly competition and relatively stable wind conditions compared to prior years. John Baker won the 19-boat regatta, followed by Doc Gates and Charlie Murphy. The race committee and shore organization ensured excellent racing and social events throughout the weekend.

The Hoover YC Fall Regatta on September 7-8 in Westerville, Ohio was affected by a high-pressure system bringing light and variable winds. Despite inconsistent conditions, the race committee completed two races on Saturday. George Fisher, grandfather of skipper Greg Fisher, competed in his first Thistle and impressed observers, ultimately winning the regatta.

The Cleveland Fall Regatta on September 21 at Cleveland Yachting Club was the site of Thistling's 50th Anniversary regatta. Only nine boats participated in this intimate one-day event with light winds that faded as the afternoon progressed, leaving minimal breeze for the final races.

The Michiana Districts Championships on June 29 at Michigan City Yacht Club marked the first Thistle regatta there in many years. Blair Dryden, Karl Felger and Nicole Finefrock won all four races convincingly. The well-organized event showcased MCYC's excellent facilities and signaled a resurgence of small boat sailing at the club.

The Fall Blowout on October 12 in LaSalle, Michigan featured three one-design fleets (Thistle, Lightning, Interlake). Despite light winds that kept attendance down, the race committee completed three races with variable conditions. Blair Dryden won overall, followed by Skip Dieball and Jack Finefrock.

The Atwood Fall Finale on October 30 near Delray, Ohio was a festive closing event for the season with four WLW races. Steve White and Warren Duckworth dominated the fleet, followed by Skip Dieball and Jack Finefrock. The event concluded with the annual awards ceremony, raffles, and North Sails donated items.

Steve Lavender won the Lake Erie Fall Series for the first time despite sailing only six of seven events, demonstrating consistency across the circuit. Jack Finefrock finished second after attending all seven regattas, and Jack Bauer placed third. The article thanks contributors to race coverage and key organizers for making the series successful.

A comprehensive report on the 2003 Lake Erie Fall Series featuring six regattas across Ohio and New York. The series culminated with a celebration regatta at Lake Chautauqua, with Craig Koschalk finishing as series champion. The article includes detailed results and encourages participation for the 2004 series.

Bruce King dominated the Michiana Districts regatta with 19 boats in light air conditions on Lakes Lemon. King won with consistent sailing, while Vlastimil Kunc finished second overall and Champ Glover, the defending champion, took third.

A record 63 Thistles converged on Cleveland for the Great Lakes Championship on July 8th at Edgewater Yacht Club. Greg Griffin dominated with consistent scores to win the championship, while Paul Abdullah and Mike Ingham finished second and third.

John Riddle wins the Lake Erie District Championships in Vermillion, Ohio with a calm, focused approach. Aided by his daughter Megan and crew member Matt Ayers, Riddle demonstrates how relaxed attitude and teamwork overcome challenging light-air conditions that affected most competitors.

Account of the Champion of Champions regatta in Detroit where Ingham's team competed in Flying Scot boats instead of Thistles. The team had to sail 20 races in different borrowed boats, ultimately winning the event after Cordaro took too many chances and received OCS penalties.

Report from the Lumberjack Regatta at Tupper Lake in upstate New York featuring 23 boats and challenging conditions. The narrative follows one crew's experience navigating wild wind shifts, a capsize, camping, and the final races. Bill Wilson took first place overall with excellent performance in three-person crew boats.

Skip Dieball won the Lake Erie Districts held June 10-11 at Pymatuning Yacht Club in Pennsylvania with 41 boats competing. Challenging northerly winds and heavy seas made for memorable racing with several capsizes, masts breaking, and rigging failures.

Ken Swetka won the 2006 Michiana Districts held June 10-11 at Crescent Sail Yacht Club in Detroit with 20 boats competing. Swetka's consistent finishes, particularly on Sunday morning, sealed the victory over Champ Glover and Andy McDonald.

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.

A detailed report of the 2005 Hoover Fall Regatta held in Ohio featuring 27 Thistles competing in challenging lake conditions. The regatta tested sailors' skills with capsizes, wind shifts, and competitive racing, with Skip Dieball and Surge Vanderhorst ultimately claiming first place honors.

An invitation to the 2006 Thistle Great Lakes Championship to be held at Buffalo Canoe Club in Crystal Beach, Ontario, Canada, June 24-25, 2006.

Report on the 2007 Lake Erie Districts hosted by Cleveland Yacht Club with 22 teams competing in 5 races over 2 days. Kyle Finefrock won with his father Jack Finefrock finishing second, and includes a junior sailor's perspective on competing in the regatta.

Race results table from the 2007 Lake Erie Districts Championship with 22 boats competing in 5 races, with Kyle Finefrock #3845 winning with 7 points total.

Overview of the 2007 Lake Erie Fall Series with eight regattas featuring exceptional participation and diverse weather conditions, followed by reports from individual events.

Comprehensive standings table from the Lake Erie Fall Series showing qualified skippers and crew results across multiple regattas with best ten race scoring.

A regatta at Eagle Lake in Michigan featured fine sailing conditions and a kid-friendly atmosphere with social activities including a sauna party, with Mark Makielski winning by seven straight races.

The 54th Great Lakes Interdistrict Championship at Seneca Yacht Club on Seneca Lake, New York on June 28-29 attracted 64 boats, the largest Thistle event ever on that lake. Blair Dryden won the overall championship with exceptional consistency. The event featured favorable sailing conditions and was proclaimed "Bill Wilson Day."

Lake Erie Districts held May 31-June 1 at Sandusky Sailing Club featured 23 boats racing in strong wind conditions. Kyle Finefrock dominated the competition winning the championship. Junior team from Cleveland Yacht Club reported on their experience learning to sail in heavy air.

Comprehensive report of the 2007 Lake Erie Fall Series comprising five regattas across multiple clubs in the Great Lakes region, with race-by-race results and skipper/crew standings throughout the season.

A first-person account of sailing in the Lake Erie Fall Series after moving to Kansas City. The author details his participation at Pymatuning regatta with crew Rick Rothenbuehler, sharing racing highlights and social activities, demonstrating the connection between former Toledo sailors and the Great Lakes racing community.

Report on the Kayaderosseras Kup at Saratoga Lake with 24 boats racing in gusty, shifty westerly winds. Dave Hansen of Vermont won with consistent sailing, while Scott Latham's team won the spectacular flying death roll award.

Report on the 2009 Great Lakes Thistle Championship held at Crescent Sail Yacht Club on Lake St. Clair near Detroit. Despite initial light wind forecasts, excellent racing conditions developed with competitive sailing from experienced veterans and young competitors alike. Skip Dieball dominated with multiple race wins.

The 2008 Lake Erie Fall Series consisted of six regattas across the late summer and fall, with over 20 boats competing. Nicole Finefrock dominated the skipper standings while Sarah Paisley earned the crew champion trophy. The report includes detailed coverage of five individual regattas (Vermillion, Atwood Harvest Moon, Dornin Memorial at Pymatuning, Cleveland Yacht Club, Johnson Memorial at Lake Chautauqua, Detroit Ice Breaker, North Cape Fall Blowout, and Buckeye Lake Fall Finale) with race conditions and individual race results.

Crescent Sail Yacht Club and Thistle Fleet #2 hosted the Michiana Districts on Lake Saint Clair in Michigan with exciting windy conditions ranging from 15-25 knots on Saturday and lighter westerly breezes on Sunday. The fleet finished with a Blessing of the Fleet featuring a bagpiper.

A report on the 2011 Midwest Double D regatta held on June 25 at IBYC in Springfield, Illinois, combining Lake Michigan and Mid-America districts with 15 boats. The event featured two races on Saturday in shifty winds with coaching by Mike Ingham of North Sails, and three races on Sunday, with strong performances by Team Fitzgerald, Team Gillian, and Team O'Hara.

The Finefrock family dominated the 2010 Lake Erie Fall Series with Jack, Kyle, and Nicole (Finefrock) Shedden taking the top three positions. The article reviews the six regattas that comprised the series, including venues at Vermilion, Atwood, and Pymatuning, highlighting the family's sailing excellence and the series' competitive standards.

Jim Beard reports on the 2011 Great Lakes Championship held at Pymatuning Yacht Club on July 9-10, where 59 boats competed in challenging conditions. Skip Dieball and crew won the championship, with Mike Ingham placing second and Craig Koschalk third. Three races were completed on Saturday as thermal winds materialized from Lake Erie.

The opening regatta of the Lake Erie Fall Series was held at Vermilion Boat Club in August 2015 with 18 teams. Light winds required a paddle to the racecourse, but conditions improved with five races completed. Jack Finefrock won the regatta with a strong finish after a slow first race. The series featured tight starting lines, short courses, big wind shifts, and giant holes requiring intense focus.

The 65th Harvest Moon Regatta was held at Atwood Lake September 12-13 with 16 boats. Saturday brought strong winds gusting to 25-30 mph with four races completed. Tom Hubbell led after day one with four first-place finishes. Sunday brought beautiful sunny conditions with lighter winds. Hubbell maintained his lead with two more first places. Ben France finished second and Steve White third. Participants enjoyed the excellent food and camaraderie of the Thistle family.

The Dorin Memorial Regatta at Pymatuning Yacht Club on September 19-20 featured dramatic wind shifts and conditions that split the weekend. Saturday brought south-southwest winds with big shifts from the right, big puffs, and several wipeouts. Sunday featured east-southeast breeze with more predictable conditions. Tom Hubbell won the regatta in a tight competition with Conor Ruppen finishing second and Steve White third.

The Fall Blow-Out at North Cape Yacht Club on October 10, 2015 featured three races with shifting winds from north to east. Kyle and Jackie Finefrock with Sarah Paisley dominated the day. Nicole Shedden's team won the second race by playing the middle of the course. The event marks the 49th Blow Out, with plans to celebrate the 50th next year with an expanded celebration.

The Cleveland Yachting Club regatta on September 26, 2015 was held at the 1995 Nationals venue with 16 boats. A southerly breeze brought shifty conditions with 30-degree wind shifts and views of downtown Cleveland. Tom Hubbell continued his dominance of the Lake Erie Fall Series with consistent smart sailing in tough conditions. Kyle Finefrock finished second and Ben France third.

The Johnson Memorial Regatta at Lake Chautauqua on October 17, 2015 featured five boats racing in sunny conditions with winds between 10-15 mph and temperatures surprisingly warm for fall. Four races were completed with unique formats: a windward/leeward, a long upwind race ending at Webb's restaurant on shore, a long downwind with jibe mark, and another windward/leeward. Tom Hubbell's team won the regatta with a chicken curry dinner and awards ceremony held at the Hubble home.

The final regatta of the Lake Erie Fall Series was held at Hoover Reservoir on October 24, 2015 with 19 competitors. Despite dire weather forecasts, conditions were excellent with southerly breezes in the low to mid teens and pleasant fall temperatures. Seven two-lap races were completed in under four hours. Craig Koschalk won the regatta, Jack Finefrock finished second, and Kyle Finefrock third. The event concluded with excellent apres-sail gathering organized by Mary McNitt.

The Lake Erie District Championships were held at Mentor Harbor Yachting Club on June 4-5, 2016, with 20 teams competing. Saturday featured cool temperatures, cloudy skies, and 8-14 knot winds with Lake Erie chop. Kyle Finefrock won the championship with consistent top finishes across all races. The event featured an ugly collared shirt contest, grilled food, and challenging conditions as a storm delayed a Cleveland Indians game and affected Cedar Point.

The 18th annual Lumberjack Regatta at Tupper Lake, New York on August 28-29, 2016 brought 18 boats from across the Northeast. Saturday's races were canceled due to lack of wind, allowing competitors to enjoy various outdoor activities. Sunday provided ideal racing conditions with moderate southwest winds for four races. Dan Hesse won overall, followed by Dave Hansen in second and Aaron Holland in third.

An overview of the eight regattas comprising the 2016 Lake Erie Fall Series held from August through October across various Ohio venues. With 52 skippers and 132 crew participating across 40 races, Jesse Shedden was crowned Champion Skipper with 11 points, Nicole Shedden as Champion Crew with 17 points, and Ian Moran as Champion Junior Skipper with 26 points. The series concluded with the highly competitive Cleveland Yachting Club Fall Series.

Hosted by Vermilion Boat Club and Thistle Fleet #165 on August 27, 2016, this regatta featured 15 boats racing in tricky variable southeast winds. Craig Koschalk, Carl Felger, and Lauren O'Hara (#4028) won with five quality races completed. The event was notable for its family-friendly atmosphere and its provision of a massive Pizza Hut buffet that delighted the fatigued sailors between races.

The Cleveland Yachting Club Fall Series Regatta on September 24, 2016 brought 15 boats to Lake Erie for demanding racing conditions with 4-6 foot waves and 15+ knot winds. Only 7 boats remained for the final race, testament to the challenging conditions. Craig Koschalk with crew Karl Felger and Lauren O'Hara won overall, with Ian Moran winning the junior skipper category.

Held at Crescent Sail Yacht Club on Lake St. Clair on October 1-2, 2016, the Icebreaker Regatta featured cooperative winds and five races across the two days. Ken and Brendon Swetka with Katie Potter won overall. CSYC members provided exceptional hospitality including breakfast buffets and pulled pork dinner for all participants.

The 50th annual Fall Blowout at North Cape Yacht Club in LaSalle, Michigan on October 8, 2016 tested 15 Thistle teams with seven races in challenging conditions: temperatures in the low 50s, northwest winds of 15-20 knots, and volatile wind shifts. Jack Finefrock with John Riddle and Dustin Buckenmeyer won, with special recognition given to John Greiner for attending and running all 50 Fall Blowout regattas.

The Last Splash Regatta at Hoover Sailing Club on October 22, 2016 challenged 16 intrepid Thistle teams with seven races in harsh conditions: 53-degree temperatures, 14-knot winds with gusts to 28, and wind shifts exceeding 90 degrees. Ben France with Jeff Eiber and Kevin Tschanz won overall, with several teams experiencing swimming events. The demanding conditions tested even the most skilled sailors.

The Eagle Ocean Regatta at Eagle Lake Sailing Club in Edwardsburg, Michigan (May 20-21, 2017) featured seven races over two days in strong wind conditions. Andy McDonald and Mark Makielski dominated the racing with four straight bullets and multiple top finishes. The regatta included a tribute to late Thistle sailor Dick Otter, with the local sailing community providing music and fellowship.

The joint Michiana Districts and One Design regatta at Sandusky Sailing Club on June 10-11, 2017, featured seven Interlakes and seven Thistles in sustained winds of 15-20 knots with gusts to 25+ mph. Challenging conditions resulted in eight capsizes (all successfully recovered), but crews persisted. Fleet sizes decreased Sunday due to continued high winds, with five races completed total and trophies awarded.

The Lake Erie Districts regatta at Pymatuning Yacht Club in Northwestern Pennsylvania (June 3-4, 2017) featured three races Saturday with wind shifts of 10-20 degrees in 5-10 mph breezes. Jesse Shedden's team won with consistent mid-place finishes, while the competition was tightly bunched behind. Sunday's races were cancelled due to weather. The District annual meeting elected John Yingling as the next District Governor.

The Vermilion Rumgatta, held August 26 at Vermilion Boat Club, was one of the most prolific Thistle events of the year with eleven teams competing. Nicole Shedden won with Kyle Finefrock in second, and various awards including rum to top finishers and pizza from Pizza Hut.

The Harvest Moon Regatta at Atwood Yacht Club, September 9-10, attracted eight Thistles. Most teams two-manned the event with perfect conditions for that format on Saturday. Ben France won first place, Jack Finefrock took second, and Conor Ruppen finished third.

The Cleveland Yachting Club Fall Regatta, September 23, saw fourteen Thistles show up on a calm morning with unusual easterly winds. The race committee got two races off before the wind died. Steve Lavender won on a tie-breaker over Tom Hubbell.

The Icebreaker Regatta at Crescent Sail Yacht Club, September 30-October 1, featured unusually pleasant weather for the event name, with warm water and air temperatures and 3-12 knot easterly winds. Seven races were sailed with light, puffy breeze creating challenging conditions.

The Johnson Memorial Regatta at Chautauqua Lake, October 14, featured perfect sailing conditions with 7-9 knot southerly wind. Bill Wilson dominated with five first-place finishes, while Nicole Shedden achieved a near-perfect second place performance.

The Blow Out Regatta at North Cape Yacht Club, October 7, was the 51st annual event featuring Thistles, Lightnings, and Interlakes. Craig Koschalk's team won with very consistent finishes throughout the regatta, demonstrating skill beyond just home field advantage.

The Last Splash Regatta at Hoover Sailing Club, October 21, was the Fall Series finale held on a beautiful day. The race committee provided seven races in a short time span with 3-minute starting sequences. Nicole Shedden won with consistent top finishes, with Ben France in second.

Report on the October 15-16 Kayaderosseras Kup at Saratoga Lake Sailing Club with 33 boats competing. Ridder describes the beautiful fall weather conditions and tight racing that was decided in the final races.

Nicole Shedden reports on the 2017 Great Lakes Championship at Edgewater Yacht Club in Cleveland on June 24-25, where 36 Thistles competed in challenging Lake Erie conditions with 12-15 knot winds on Saturday and 15-20+ knot gusts with rough chop on Sunday. Matt Fisher with Wayne Pignolet and Ian Moran won the regatta with 5 points.

The 2018 Lake Erie District Championship at Cleveland Yachting Club, June 23-24, featured 22 boats racing in stormy conditions. Ben France won with a 1-3 performance on Sunday, edging out George Pearsall by 2 points. The event served as a feel-out for a potential 2020 Nationals bid.

Report from the October 14-15, 2017 SSC Kayaderosseras Kup at Saratoga Lake Sailing Club. Warm fall weather prevailed with light sailing conditions on Saturday and better breeze on Sunday. Eric, Judy, and Adam Gesner won easily, Aaron Holland and crew finished second, and David Hansen third. The regatta featured traditional social events including hors d'oeuvres and pasta dinners.

Comprehensive coverage of the 2018 Lake Erie Fall Series, a multi-regatta circuit held on Lake Erie. Reports include the Dornin Memorial Regatta at Pymatuning Yacht Club, North Cape Blow Out, and results from multiple regattas including races at Atwood (Harvest Moon), Crescent Sail (Ice Breaker), Cleveland, and Johnson Memorial.

Report on the 20th annual Lumberjack Regatta held on Tupper Lake with 17 boats and favorable conditions. Dave Hansen won first place, Aaron Holland second, and Chris Wilson third. Includes race results table and tribute to Elmer Richards' 20 years of creating memorable regatta mementos.

Report from the Johnson Memorial Regatta on Chautauqua Lake where light and shifty wind conditions made for a challenging but rewarding event. Steve Lavender and Dave Stetson won with consistency, while Jack and Kathy Finefrock made a dramatic comeback in Race 2.

Young sailors Finn and Evelyn Shedden share their perspectives on sailing in the Lake Erie Fall Series at three regattas (Atwood Harvest Moon, Pymatuning Dornin Memorial, and Chautauqua Johnson Memorial). Their candid observations capture both the challenges and joys of junior sailing.

North Cape Yacht Club hosted the Blow Out Regatta on October 5, 2019, where Craig Koschalk dominated with three bullets (first place finishes) in three races. Twelve boats enjoyed fantastic fall sailing conditions with excellent racing and three triangle courses managed by John Greiner.

Twenty-four boats sailed the Last Splash Regatta at Hoover Sailing Club on October 19, 2019 in typical fall conditions. Ben France and Mark Hess demonstrated consistency throughout five races, with Hoover's characteristic mix of competitive racing and fun atmosphere.

Final standings and summary for the 2019 Lake Erie Fall Series (LEFS), including skipper and crew trophy winners. Craig Koschalk won the skipper trophy and Lauren O'Hara and Ryan Kyle tied for the crew trophy.

The North Cape Yacht Club Fall Blow-out on October 3, 2020, featured a chilly morning, light air, and twelve boats racing three races. Despite cold temperatures and variable winds, the fleet experienced competitive and well-run racing. Each race was won by a different skipper, with tight finishes.

Crescent Sail Yacht Club held an abbreviated Icebreaker regatta on October 10, 2020, as a one-day event with no social events due to COVID-19. Warm fall weather and Southwest winds provided sporty conditions. Craig Koschalk won for the second consecutive year with consistent racing.

Hoover Sailing Club's October 17, 2020 PLAID (Please Leave Appropriate Individual Distance) regatta was the finale of the Lake Erie Fall Series with 22 boats competing across six races. Stu Fisher and team won, with dominant consistency, while Conor Ruppen's team finished third. The regatta results wrapped up the series standings for both skippers and crews.

Comprehensive wrap-up of the 2020 Lake Erie Fall Series, which featured five regattas across the season despite pandemic challenges. Craig Koschalk #4028 won the skipper trophy and top crew award was split between Ryan Kyle and Lauren O'Hara. The article celebrates the successful series completion and thanks regatta hosts for their COVID-19 safety protocols.

Report on the Lake Erie Districts regatta held at Edgewater Yacht Club in Cleveland with 34 teams competing. The event featured challenging Saturday winds with 2-22 knot shifts, followed by lighter Sunday conditions. Ben France's team won with consistent finishes, while the event provided a chance for the Thistle community to reunite after the quiet 2020 season.

Thistle Fleet #2 at Crescent Sail Yacht Club hosted the annual Icebreaker and early 2022 Michiana District Championship on Lake St. Clair near Detroit. Ron Sherry won the regatta, with Craig Koschalk close behind. The event honored Luiz Kahl, creator of Yacht Scoring who passed away unexpectedly.

The Lake Erie Fall Series saw normalcy return with 59 different skippers and 117 crew participating. Craig Koschalk and Lauren O'Hara won the series trophies for the second year in a row, with 15 skippers and 22 crew qualifying for perpetual trophies.

A personal account of the Great Lakes Championship held June 25-26, 2022 at Crescent Sail Yacht Club in Michigan. Shedden describes the hospitality of the club (including dockside lodging on big boats), competitive racing conditions with two different wind directions, and celebrates the winning performances of Ken and Brendon Swetka.

Report on the Great Lakes Championship held June 10-11, 2023, at Seneca Yacht Club in New York. Aaron Holland's team won the regatta, with competitive racing in challenging wind shifts and an evening of entertainment featuring live music and fireworks.

Race results from the 2023 Michiana Districts and Great Pond Regatta held at Wilmington, Ohio, showing 12 teams racing six races with Mark Hess taking the overall win.

Report on the final regatta of the Lake Erie Fall Series at Hoover Sailing Club. The authors describe conditions with light winds and tactical challenges at each mark, highlighting the competitive depth of the Lake Erie fleet.

The Lake Michigan Districts were held May 6-7 at Island Bay Yacht Club in Springfield, Illinois, featuring extremely contrasting wind conditions. Saturday brought survival-level winds with gusts to 38 mph, while Sunday featured unpredictable light and variable winds, providing a challenging introduction to the boat's capabilities.

Historical article reprinted from a 1970 Bagpipe describing the genesis and first year of the Lakes Fall Series, which grew from Lake Erie sailors' desire to extend their racing season. The series included nine regattas with 19 boats qualifying, offering unique trophies and fostering strong competition and social events.

Kyle Finefrock won the Great Lakes Championship at Sandusky Sailing Club with dominant performances and excellent boat handling in challenging conditions. The regatta featured camping, strong wind gusting to 32 mph, and competitive racing with lead changes throughout.

Race report of Cleveland Fall Regatta on September 23, 2023 at Cleveland Yachting Club on Lake Erie. Featuring 10-12 mph breeze and three-foot waves, Noah Craciun won the single race event, with Steve Lavender and Tom Hubbell following closely.

Feature report of Last Splash Regatta held October 21, 2023 at Hoover Sailing Club. Nineteen boats competed in seven races with shifty westerly breeze. Bobby Sessions dominated the event. Includes lyrics to a sailing song about keeping composure in changing wind conditions.

Summary of the Lake Erie Fall Series 2023 season with standings for top skippers and crew. Includes information about Rooke Sails cover pricing and pricing for sail numbering or custom options.

Comprehensive report on Lake Erie Districts held June 29-30 at Edgewater Yacht Club. Craig Koschalk won with seven competitive races, with Nicole Shedden and Jack Finefrock rounding out the top three. The report highlights close racing and the transition of Bobby Sessions as new District Governor.

The 2024 Lake Erie Fall Series saw strong participation with 18 skippers and 24 crews qualifying over three regattas. The series included multiple regattas with results from Atwood Harvest Moon, Sandusky One Design, CYC Equinox, Mentor Harbor Fall, Crescent Sail Ice Breaker, and North Cape Blow Out events. Youth sailors including Riley Kitchin at age 9 showed exceptional participation.

The Last Splash Regatta at Hoover Sailing Club on October 19, 2024, concluded the Lake Erie Fall Series with calm, light winds and three races. Jordan Gourash won the event with close competition throughout, and Owen Moes was recognized as the top junior finisher.

Adam Gesner describes the Great Lakes Championship at Cleveland Yachting Club in Rocky River on July 26-27, highlighting the excellent facilities, competitive fleet of 26 boats with 7 past National champs, memorable on-water moments, and a dramatic finish involving a power outage at the marina requiring innovative solutions for hauling boats.

Report on the Cleveland Yachting Club Equinox Regatta held at Rocky River, Ohio, with 12 teams competing in a classic fall Lake Erie sailing day with big waves and building breeze. Bobby Sessions with crew Tim Vining and Callie Ruppen won the regatta, with 5 competitive races completed by 2:45 and a cookout following.

Report on the Hoover Last Splash Regatta held at Hoover Sailing Club in Westerville, Ohio, with 12 boats competing in six races. Kyle Finefrock and Cole Finefrock with Joe Goetz won, with Tom Hubbell second and Adam Gilbertson third. The author humorously describes the mishaps of forgetting the centerboard and jib sheets, creative rigging solutions, and a competitive tacking duel with Charlie Yingling. Lake Erie Fall Series statistics show 9 qualifying regattas with 48 unique skippers and 111 unique crew.