Ray Breidster sailing "BAD SAC" won the three-race Milwaukee Journal trophy regatta. Six Thistles participated, including three from Milwaukee and three from Racine. Breidster's sailing experience with international Dinghies contributed to his success.
Regional Regattas & Fleet Race Reports
Regatta News Roundups
Multi-regatta news digests and race reports compiling results and standings from Thistle events across districts.
595 articles · 1946–2026
Summary of recent Thistle Class regattas including wins at Inter-Lake, South Shore (Vermilion), Sandusky, Cleveland, and the Frostbite Sweepstakes in Toledo. Notable sailors include Sandy Douglass, John Lovell, Bill Miller, Carl Seifert, Dick Shaw, and others competing across multiple events.
Nineteen Thistles competed at Put-in-Bay August 4-6 with boats from Toledo, Cleveland, Harbor Head, Watkins Lake, and Sandusky fleets in extremely light air. Snell and Basset won the three-race championship, with each day producing a different winner. Inboard jib rigs and Nylon sails proved advantageous.
Brief reports of Thistle racing victories from regattas across the country, including wins at Sandusky, Clear River Ohio, Toledo, Norwalk, and Canandaigua, New York.
Nine Thistles participated in the local championship race at Toledo Yacht Club on June 14, but rain, cold and high winds limited the event to one race instead of two. Sandy Douglass won first place, followed by John Lovett and Snell. The afternoon races were cancelled and prizes awarded on the basis of one race.
Thistles have been winning open races across multiple venues. Notable victories include John Brogan's MARBLE at Ephraim Y.C., Ray Breidster's SAD SAC at Milwaukee Y.C., and George Geil's WAVE consistently winning in the 16 foot class around Chesapeake Bay.
Cleveland Thistlers continued racing after the official season ended. Al Roder Riven organized a two-race series between four Thistles and an equal number of Stars competing for a "Thistles" trophy. Although a Thistle won both races, a Star skipper was steering, but participants and spectators still had a rousing good time.
Herb Sinnhoffer and his crew won both heats of the Balboa Y.C. Easter Regatta with light winds, using skillful seamanship. Six Thistles from the San Diego Southwestern Y.C. fleet competed, with crews reflecting the Mexican influence of the region through boat naming conventions. The west coast Thistle fleet is growing rapidly with eleven boats now active.
The 55th Inter-Lake Yachting Association regatta held at Put-in-Bay featured 24 boats in 23 classes racing in good winds. Messmur IV won the Thistle competition with a strong 1-6-1 record, representing 13 different clubs. The three races on the 9-mile triangular course around Battle-snake Island tested starting and mark-turning skills.
The Thistle class participated in the Detroit Race Week over the July 4th weekend. Jabiwa, sailed by A.R. Waugaman, won first place, with Lively Lady and Manamaca taking second and third respectively. Detroit Thistlers expressed concern about their private gathering being publicized.
During Marblehead Race week, twelve Thistles competed, with seven representing the Savin Hill Y.C. fleet. Russel Monaghan won the Corinthian series in the unnamed boat Whip 11. Details of the event are sparse, but participants apparently enjoyed themselves.
Jim Hendricksen swept the three-race Sandusky S.C. regatta trophy with three straight firsts in his PHP No. 21. Dr. Harry Spangenberg finished second in his Auld Leddy, while Bob Laughlin took third in Sewgail. Races featured challenging puffy and gusty winds requiring precise boat handling.
Regatta report from Buckeye Lake Y.C., Ohio on October 16-17, 1948, hosted jointly with Lightning Fleet #23. Twelve Thistles and twenty-four lightnings participated. Jim Hendrickson in BLACK JAC #21 won overall, with Sandy Douglas and Bill Wagner placing second and third. Includes report on sailing clinic.
Column covering miscellaneous news items including a Boston Chowder Race victory story and reports about Thistle racing on the East Coast. Discusses Sandy Douglass's accomplishments and various sailing events.
Cleveland Y.C. sees intense competition with eleven to twelve boats racing. Bob Clabaugh's WEATHER wins the Williams trophy series, and John Lovett's WEE LOVETT TOO claims the club championship. Strong racing continues in the Saturday series at Edgewater Y.C. and Mentor Harbor.
Fleet standings at Watkins Lake (Mich.) Y.A. show Don Zamnoth's SEAWEED leading, with Vic Helenski's MAUTO second and Karl Kreitz's KREITZ KRAFT third. A memorable incident involving Commodore Frank Foster in FOSTER'S FOLLY demonstrated persistence in extremely light wind conditions.
A reminder about an upcoming L.M.Y.A. regatta scheduled for Macatawa, Michigan on July 3, 4, 5, with details on the next page.
Thistles at Watkins Lake Y.A. in Pontiac, Michigan are enjoying active racing with eight boats in the fleet. Point score races have been run with local sailors leading, and the fleet is preparing for upcoming races including opportunities to break into competitive circles. Notable boats include new purchases and several boats with established records.
Tony Herrmann in Racine, Wisconsin seeks help in organizing Thistle racing activities. He has expressed interest in the L.M.Y.A. Regattas and is looking for other Thistle sailors in the area to help establish racing interest. Tony offers his availability for organizing and invites interested sailors to contact him.
Tony Herrmann is organizing a Thistle turnout for the July 3rd-4th L.M.Y.A. Regatta at Macatawa, Michigan, aiming to attract 20-30 boats from the Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ohio areas.
Report on the President's Cup Regatta with application made after the program was established. The committee forced to start the races only 10 minutes after the last class, necessitating considerable handling of boats.
Thirteen Thistles competed at Mentor Harbor Y.C. on August 22, 1948 in extremely light air with an offshore breeze. John Lovett's WEB LOVETT TOO No. 3 won by employing tactical positioning and smart racing, followed by Fred Best's JADE No. 104 and Elmo Farmer's TIGGY No. 11.
Three Thistles competed at the Milwaukee Journal Annual Regatta. W.J. Rohan from Racine Y.C. won with TARTAR No. 46, Tony Herrmann took second with STICKERS No. 32, and Wallace Jazor finished third with FLOWAL No. 50. Conditions featured plenty of wind.
The Black-Rock, Fayerweather Y.C. Invitation Regatta held in Bridgeport, Connecticut on July 10-11, 1948 hosted four Thistles. Roger Brett's LADY ANNE No. 191 won both days, followed by Dick Ford Jr.'s THISTLE WHISTLE No. 232, Ronald J. Small's LYYILI No. 221, and Hobart Beets' SALTY DOG No. 252.
Only two Thistles competed at the Eastern Connecticut Y.R.A. Regatta at Greshan's Island: Roger Brett's LADY ANNE No. 191 and Ronald Small's LYYILI No. 221. Racing separately as their own class, these boats generated interest from spectators unfamiliar with Thistles. LADY ANNE won the three-day regatta with two races to one.
Correction to an article in the March issue about "Chesapeake Progress." The facts quoted were straight; Sandy followed the first Chesapeake 20 in by about 17 seconds but was several minutes ahead of the second 20. The Star affair was a brush race, not a competition race.
Fleet news briefs from various Thistle regions including winners from Potomac River, Fairhaven, Shreveport, Muskegon, and Mission Bay. Reports highlight strong activity in multiple districts and regional championships.
Edgewater Y.C. in Northport hosted an Invitation Regatta on July 1st with four Thistles competing in light air. Ronny Small won in LYLII #221 with Dick Hutton's ROWDY #372 placing second. Discussion of potential team racing events.
South Shore Y.C. (Fleet 16) started the regatta season on May 14-15 with nine Thistles competing. Dr. Clyde Gump won first with 22 points, followed by Emery O. Lange with 21 points, and W.R. Wagner in third with 18½ points.
Early race results show Herman Bloch leading on Julia B, with Ray McLeod's Cardius II in second place.
The annual Frostbite Sweepstakes regatta was held at Toledo Y.C. on June 11-12 with thirteen Thistles competing. Barney Barnett won first place, with Doc Keller and George Butts tying for second, and Bill Swalbert in third.
Ray Hunt, who will soon launch the Javelin, a 23-footer, has issued a challenge to Sandy Douglass with a side bet one dollar. This establishes a reputation for boats competing at the highest level of sailing.
The Balboa Y.C. Easter Regatta saw Thistle racers finish with H. Sinnhoffer first in PEDRO #223, F. & F. Hanratty second in PANCHO #209, and W. Eckwirth third in BLENNY #261. Notes on other participants and activities from the Newport, California event are included.
Report of the Mentor Harbor Thistle Fleet's annual regatta held on July 30th, won by visiting boats from other fleets. Harvey Busch's NAN TOO won first place, followed by Emery Kampa in NATURE BOY, with Willard Friswell's JUST IN CASE taking third place in a brisk 12-15 knot wind.
Report on the 37th Annual South Shore Regatta at Vermilion, Ohio, held on August 19th and 20th. Only five Thistles participated this year, partly due to the concurrent Nationals and Port Clinton Regatta. Two races were held on a six-mile triangle course.
The 57th Annual Interlake Regatta hosted thirty-two Thistles at Put-In-Bay, Ohio in August with favorable wind conditions. Dick Gibbs won the championship in HIGH LIFE with 86 points, receiving the Henry A. Parsons Memorial Trophy. Emery Kamps placed second with 83 1/4 points and Harvey Busch third with 81 1/4.
Complete race results from the Put-In-Bay Regatta hosted August 14-16, with thirty-two boats competing across three races. HIGH LIFE's Dick Gibbs won the overall championship, with NATURE BOY and NAN TOO rounding out the top three finishers.
Seven THISTLEs raced at Pine Orchard, Connecticut on August 3-5. Dick Brainard and his BR'ER FOX (545) dominated the regatta with two first-place finishes and a second, accumulating 20 1/2 points to win the trophy. Favorable racing conditions with fresh breezes and good weather.
Fleet 36 at Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey had its first year of organized THISTLE racing with great success. Doug Gibb won the fleet championship with T. David Gibb Jr. runner-up in GREEN BANANA. The fleet expects to grow from its current membership.
A report from Bill Elmer of the Barnagat Bay Thistle Fleet describing the September regatta with race results, featuring Sam Merrick's victory and subsequent racing activities in their New Jersey waters.
Tabular race results from the President's Cup Regatta showing boat names, skippers, and their first, second, and third race placements.
News about arranging a THISTLE entry for the International Yacht Racing Union trials near Amsterdam in late June, with Sandy Douglass coordinating the effort and seeking financial support from the class.
A news column reporting on recent racing results and fleet activities across multiple Thistle locations, including Nationals results and local fleet championships.
Detailed race report from Manhasset Bay Yacht Club's Fall Race Week featuring eleven THISTLE boats competing in excellent conditions. Ray Kallman in CHUNGA dominated with three first-place finishes, while Jerry Swanton placed second and Dick Brita finished third despite halyard troubles.
Column by former Bagpipe editor Ron Small reporting on Labor Day sailing series results from multiple yacht clubs and regatta events. Covers racing results from Fallbour Yacht Club and Windjammers Sailing Club in Connecticut.
Report from the I.L.Y.A. regatta held August 11-13, 1952 in Put-in-Bay, Ohio. Howard Boston dominates in his boat Manataka, with his wife Lolly Boston winning the ladies' race and narrowly edging out George Butts for the overall victory.
Results from the open THISTLE regatta at Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey on July 19-20, 1952, one of the newest THISTLE events attracting twenty entrants from various clubs.
Report of the Red Grass Memorial Regatta hosted by Raritan Yacht Club on July 12, 1952, originally a closed event but now open to THISTLES, Eagles, and Lightnings. Doug McNitt's Foosh wins the THISTLE division.
Report from Larchmont Race Week held July 19-26 where Tiny Duys' Tumbleweed dominates the six races, with Wally Lineburgh's Whiskaway running a close second. Clear skies and fitful winds characterized the week's racing with a lighter THISTLE turnout than previous years.
Racing report from Manhasset Bay week-end series featuring reports on Thistle fleet racing. Race Committee Chairman Bob Frazier provided details on Saturday and Sunday races with awards to various skippers.
A compilation of regional regatta reports from across the country, including results and details from competitions in the Michiana District, Long Island Sound, Great South Bay, and Eastern Connecticut. Reports document wind conditions, notable performances, and competitive outcomes during the summer racing season.
Report from the 60th Annual Inter-Lake Yachting Association Regatta at Port in Bay, Ohio, August 10-12, 1953, where 17 Thistles participated. Bill Nevison's Glue Pot dominated the proceedings with strong winds providing excellent racing conditions, finishing ahead of Jim Townsend's Pocket and the Seamens Brothers in Ber-Sea II.
Report on the Fall Series at Manhasset Bay, Long Island, where nine Thistles including defending champion Charga competed. Varied weather conditions from light zephyrs to howling gales tested the sailors' skills throughout the series.
Six Thistles competed in the Great South Bay Race Week held from August 2-7. The event featured varied weather conditions ranging from light and fluky to rugged. Rowdy II, skippered by Dick Hutton, finished first overall.
Manhasset Bay Race Week, held in September, saw eight Thistles participate in a shortened three-race series. Ray Kallman in Chunga won the championship with solid performances across all three races.
Complete race results table for the One-of-a-Kind Series regatta showing final positions and corrected times for all 27 boats that competed, with gratitude extended to the host club and sponsors.
Fleet 31, based at Pygmalion Yacht Club, reports on early season racing where visiting Thistles dominated the Fourth of July Series. Willard Frissell took first place with 8 points, followed by Wee Hope II and William Gupton. The report also includes details on the June-July racing series and an incident involving Merritt Giles.
Francis "Libaine" Loche (277) won the Marblehead Challenge bowl from Olive Carpe, another of the Americas Race Week trophies. Ron Small, TCA President, was sailing Arnold Glazebrook's Haggis 674, which finished second for the week.
The Thistle Class received the trophy for the largest entry in the 61st Inter-Lake Regatta at Put In Bay in August. Harvey Busch won the event from a fleet of 24 Thistles. The standings reflect strong performances in light to brisk conditions with standouts including George Butte, Tony Herrmann, and Harry Spangenberg.
Fleet No. 1 reported on early season activities including warm-up races in May and cancellation of the full series due to high winds. The first races in June saw participation from fleet members and welcomed a new transfer.
Harry R. Sindle extends an invitation to all Thistle Skippers to participate in the Atlantic Coast Championship Regatta at Lavallette, New Jersey on June 18-19. The racing schedule includes races on Saturday morning and Sunday, with prizes for the first three skippers. An electric hoist and beach facilities will be available for boat launching, and a liquor license allows for social gatherings and informal parties.
Ron Small reports on the M.I.T. Manhasset Bay Fall Race Series which involved over 20 classes and 185 boats competing over the course. Dennis Rosey demonstrated exceptional performance and rookie John Hartung's race strategy proved effective despite close competition throughout the series.
Dick Parker reports on the Red Dragon Canoe Club's annual Labor Day Regatta sponsored by Fleet #54 in Edgewater Park, N.J., which featured nine Thistles sailing in three races. Close competition and interesting wind conditions provided exciting racing despite some challenging circumstances.
Report of the I.L.Y.A. Regatta held at Put-in-Bay, Ohio, where George Butts and the Flotsam achieved outstanding results. Despite unusually wild side effects from the low attendance, the Thistle fleet performed competitively with Butts leading.
A report on a team race competition held at the California District Championships in December, involving Thistle boats sailing from Newport-Balboa. The article details the competitive racing conditions, tactical sailing, and race results with standings showing strong participation from California fleets.
Comprehensive reports from various Thistle fleets across the country, detailing regattas, race results, and fleet activities throughout the season. Includes detailed race results tables and commentary from district secretaries.
A section reporting on fleet activities and regatta results from various Thistle fleets around the country, including reports on races at Memphis, Fort Loudon, and other locations.
Regatta report from the Tenth Annual Shore Fleet Series at Port Clinton Yacht Club with two races sailed in gusty conditions, featuring 15 Thistle sailors from eight outside yacht clubs.
Race report of President's Cup regatta held on two parts with varying wind conditions, detailing boat performance and standings for the two-lap competition.
Report on the First Tri-State Regatta held by Cincinnati Thistles, featuring competitors from Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky with five races sailed across the event.
Continuation of fleet reports covering various regional Thistle activities, regatta standings, and race results from multiple districts including Cowan Lake, Pymatuning, and Lake Michigan competitions during summer 1956.
Report on the fourth annual Put-In-Bay long distance race held in connection with the Interlake Yachting Association Regatta, with detailed handicap scoring and class ratings.
Last-minute news notes include Sinny Sinclair winning the Mentor Harbor Race Committee head position and the winter championship at St. Pete, plus announcements about upcoming Nationals and Larchmont Race Week.
Brief announcement that the finals of the North American Sailing Championships will be held at Marblehead in September, thanks to the efforts of Ron Small and Art Arms.
Compilation of summer race schedules from various yacht clubs including West River, Baltimore, Annapolis, and other regional sailing venues, with details on dates, locations, and race formats.
Continuation of the race weeks article discussing East Coast summer racing venues, schedules, and practical sailing information for competitors including details on starting lines and wind conditions.
Article about the selection of the Thistle class for the Mallory Cup finals to be held at Marblehead, Massachusetts in September under the auspices of the Eastern Yacht Club. Six other classes were considered, and Art Arms chairs the arrangements committee with Fred Shlatt as assistant. Emphasis on ensuring Boston Fleet gets nearly identical boats for fair competition.
Details on preparations for the September Mallory Cup Series, including requirements for Thistle racers. Covers hiking straps, vangs, travelers, compass, jib sheet leads, forestay toggles, and sails specifications.
Comprehensive report on the Lake Massabesic Regatta held on Lake Massabesic in New Hampshire in September. Thirteen Thistles from Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont competed in ideal fall weather conditions with exciting racing.
The Yacht Racing Union of Massachusetts Bay thanks the Thistle Class for their participation in the Mallory Cup Series, praising the outstanding success and effort made by participants.
Continuation of the O'Day Mallory Cup article with additional details about skipper selection from various areas and final championship results showing O'Day as winner.
Detailed box score showing the race results and point standings for all eight boats in the Mallory Cup series, with O'Day winning the championship.
Official results table from the Fleet 80 Fall Thistle Regatta held October 18-19, 1958, showing finishing positions and points for 21 participants.
Detroit Thistle Fleet #2 held their third annual shake-down regatta on May 25 at Crescent Sail Y.C. on Lake St. Clair, attracting competitors from Ohio and Michigan. Dr. Douglas Wake won first place in this spirited regatta with good winds and social events.
Regatta report covering the Port Clinton week-end races in October with 21 Thistles competing, featuring reports of race conditions, notable finishes, and social events including Saturday buffet dinner and prize ceremony.
Report of the Skip Boston licebreaker Series in Detroit with Skip Boston taking the overall victory over a field of 12 Thistles. Notable wins for various skippers including George Devlin and Herbert Mainwaring with details on race conditions.
Don Kent and Dick Gallagher competed in the Quincy Bay Race Week with fifteen Thistles participating. Despite Kent's wins in the closing races, Gallagher in SCOTCH MIST secured the overall series victory. Excellent weather and organization made it a successful regatta with strong media coverage.
Fifteen Thistles participated in the famous Marblehead Harbor races for Race Week, July 19-26. The first 3-race Eastern Y.C. series was challenging with variable weather, followed by a second series where New England District champ Dick Gallagher triumphed, and final races at Corinthian Y.C. to determine the New England District Champion.
Bill DeWitt won the Commodore Decatur Yacht Club's Intercity Regatta with his boat #933, with a commanding lead. The regatta featured 16 Thistles participating from various clubs, and despite fluky weather and one race cancellation, the competition was strong and competitive.
The Cape May Thistle Regatta was held August 8th and 9th at Cold Spring Harbor with challenging weather including rain and shifting wind. Though a severe thunderstorm prevented completion, the regatta provided memorable experiences including a rain-soaked first mark encounter and various sailing mishaps during the challenging conditions.
George McGregor won the Quincy Bay Race Week with his boat Cabbage Patch, overcoming challenging conditions of heat, humidity and variable winds. McGregor sailed in light airs early in the series before conditions shifted, with Cirrus also competing strongly in the five-race event.
Frank Allcorn won the first Carling Invitational Regatta at Lake Lanier with a close victory over Johnny Jennings. The Lake Lanier Sailing Club event was attended by twenty Thistles and featured new fleet additions in its inaugural year.
Detailed race results from the Carling Invitational held at Lake Lanier Sailing Club on June 20-21, 1959, showing individual race scores and overall points for 19 competing boats.
Howard King of Indianapolis won the Diamond Jubilee regatta at Lake Champlain in September, with Fred Compton second and George Hills of Cincinnati's Cowan Yacht Club fourth.
Seventeen-year-old Hank Maust of Bellport won the Great South Bay Thistle championship for the second consecutive year, securing three straight firsts in the Bellport Yacht Club Labor Day series. The season series comprised races in July and three at Bellport, with weather ranging from moderate to light conditions.
Continuation of the Maust article with race results summary from the Labor Day series races.
Word has been received that there will be a Houston, Texas regatta on the week end nearest Valentine's Day, featuring hot buttered runs and other activities.
Dave Minton and Bob Humpleby raced to a Thistle victory in the annual Two-of-a-Kind series held at Leatherips Y.C. in Columbus, Ohio. The three-race series featured seven two-boat teams in competition over a triangular course. Handicaps were based on local fleet performance during the year.
Doug MacGregor led the Fall Circuit Series with 6½ points. The Thistle northeast Fall Circuit Series from October 8-9 saw New Jersey District Secretary Elmer Richards earned SANDPIPER in a close 6½ point race, with Walt Stubner taking third. The perpetual Fall Trophy Plaque was awarded to Doug Westin.
Two rough regattas in Texas were sailed largely by new Thistles. At Seabrook Sailing club, Ron Geer won in severe conditions with 16 mph wind and 30-knot gusts. At Concho Y.C., high winds and rain forced cancellations, with Fisher ultimately winning the series.
At Goguac Lake near Battle Creek, Michigan, home of Fleet 85, Fred LaFollette dominated the annual regatta held June 18 with a 2-1-3-1-1 record, giving him a decisive victory. Weary sailors celebrated with a cocktail party at the Hart Hotel.
Commodore Decatur Yacht Club in Illinois hosted the annual Governor's Cup Regatta at Kelloggs Lake where Bill Walton and crew Rose Bilski and Ralph Walton won all the hardware by putting together a 3-5-1 record to win by 11 points.
Doug MacGregor won the New England District championship in a competitive event featuring eighteen Thistles racing in a three-series format. The article describes the racing tactics and results from multiple races with varying wind conditions.
Thistlers were given a friendly welcome to the island of Pymlinglan as they arrived for the club's fiftieth annual whileasting regatta. Russell stood by with promises of clearing skies quoting wind conditions, offering a series of postmodern races. First-place finishes gained superiority and the boat's speed advantage.
The Crosby Yacht Club celebrated the Fourth of July with a three-day race regatta, going west on a surprise visit where Thistler fleet members on the Highland Lakes Thistle fleet, who literally undetered fleet calling occasion.
Bill Walton took top honors in the Thistle class at the 20th Annual Middle-States Regatta, held Labor Day weekend in Springfield, Illinois. Playings held to seven classes of 124 sailboats. Bruce Goldsmith finished 1962 National champ in a light race from his days and Phelps third position.
The South Atlantic district's "Five Flags Regatta" presented a very close only three-way battle involving boats that only by the 18 of the Regatta. A report on competing boats from Thistles, including rankings from various clubs and skipper results.
The annual "Three Cheers" Regatta at the Milford Yacht club saw Bordes ultimately achieve first place among the competing Thistles in what ended racing as the Milford's Pete Bordes' three-boat straight weekend series. The article describes three races over the weekend with tactical details and placement results.
Describing variable wind conditions at a Mystic Boat Club regatta on July 9-10, the article details how light winds and ocean currents affected the two-race event, with detailed analysis of each race outcome.
Eighteen Thistles representing all four districts competed in the New England District championship series held at Winthrop, Massachusetts. The three-race series, enlivened by significant ocean traffic, featured competitive sailing over a six-mile triangle course.
Bill Walton took top honors in the Thistle class at the State Regatta held Labor Day weekend in Springfield, Illinois at Island Bay Yacht Club. The event featured 124 sailboats in seven classes with Bruce Goldsmith placing third.
A regatta report from Long Island with race results and finishing order from the event.
Bob Couch from Goguac Yacht Club in Michigan won the Light Air Diamond Jubilee Regatta held September 9-10 at Diamond Lake. Ted Himsworth came in second and Tom Adams of Goguac Yacht Club placed third. The article includes a detailed race results table showing finishing positions.
Bob Cooch and the Light Air Diamond Jubilee Thistle Regatta, held September 9-10 at Diamond Lake, Michigan, is covered. Second place went to Ted Himsworth and third to Tom Adams, each winning various trophies.
Jerry Milgram of Boston emerged as the winner of the second annual Fall Series for skippers in the Middle Atlantic and New England states held over five consecutive weekends from September 9 through October 8. The series was followed by three-race series at Sayville and Milford. Milgram's outstanding performances and consistent competitiveness secured him the championship.
The second annual organized Fall Series for skippers in the Middle Atlantic and New England States was held on five consecutive weekends from September 9 through October 8. Huntington, Long Island and Sayvile, Long Island races were followed by four three-race series at other locations. Prizes were awarded for individual weekend winners, and the most consistent performer won the Western Perpetual Trophy.
Doug MacGregor from Cottage Park Y.C. in Winthrop, Massachusetts, won the September 23-24 Thistle regatta at Milford, Connecticut with 1094.5 points. Walt Stubner of Milford finished second with 1091 points, and Ed Walsh of the Red Dragon Canoe Club in Philadelphia came third with 974 points.
Doug MacGregor (1366) of the Cottage Park Y.C. in Winthrop, Mass., won the September 23-24 Thistle regatta at Milford, Conn., with 10.5 points, defeating Walt Stubner (1124) of Milford with 10.5 points and Ed Walsh (818) with 9.75 points.
Twenty-two Thistle skippers converged on Winthrop, Massachusetts, for the closing Fall Series Regatta hosted by Cottage Park Yacht Club on October 7-8. Gordon Vineyard and Doug MacGregor picked up the marbles with courses set toward the harbor's mouth where several Thistles drifted and enjoyed the evening's calling of the race.
Twenty-two Thistles raced at Lake Guntersville Yacht Club's third annual Fall Regatta on October 14 and 15. A cold front with gusts up to 35 mph spoiled the record of no wind disasters. One o'clock start was postponed when the scheduled race was delayed. Only thirteen skippers participated in the windy conditions with two o'clock starts bringing out different fleets of foothardies.
Twenty-two Thistle skippers competed on Winthrop, Mass., for the closing Fall Series Regatta hosted by Cottage Park Yacht Club on October 7-8. Gordon Vineyard and Doug MacGregor initially picked up the marbles before a course was set.
Twenty-two thistles were on hand for Lake Guntersville Yacht Club's annual Fall Regatta on October 14 and 15. A cold front early Saturday brought winds of up to 35 MPH. Only thirteen boats (or fourteen) finished the single race, with other boats withdrawn due to wind conditions.
The Commodore Decatur Yacht Club's Sixth Invitational Regatta started with 20 Thistles waiting in calm for wind. Light air finally prevailed and a one-lap race was completed with Bob Kaiser taking first place while Bill Walton was second and Jack LaFollette was third. Sunday brought moderate to shifty conditions.
The Commodore Decatur Yacht Club's Sixth Invitational Regatta started with fewer than a bang as 20 Thistles waited almost in vain for wind. Light air finally prevailed and a one lap race was completed with Bob Kaiser (1149) easing off with first place while Bill Walton (447) was second and Jack LaFollette (1089) third.
Continuing a detailed account of the Dixie Regatta with descriptions of boat handling techniques and race outcomes, including notes on spinnaker runs and various competitors' performances.
Bill Walton (447) of St. Louis won the 8th annual Regatta sponsored by the NASHVILLE TENNESSEAN and Nashville Sailing Association in May 2011, with strong overall performance earning him the Challenge trophy against other Lightning and Thistle class boats.
Bill Walton's top-honors win in the N.H annual Regatta sponsored by TNEA-NASHVILLE TENNESSEAN. Walton was awarded the Challenge trophy, which goes annually to the skipper with the best overall performance in his class. Bill also received a Chippendaile tray and other first-finisher privileges.
Race results from the Balboa Easter Regatta showing three race scores and final finishes for 13 competitors. Gene Allen (1043) won with scores of 1-2-1, Allen Cottle (734) was second with 4-1-2, and Dick Andrews (74) finished third with 9-3-3.
Race results table from the Balboa Regatta showing skipper names, boat numbers, and their placements across three races plus final standings.
The South Boston Yacht Club's 94th annual Independence Day Regatta featured challenging 40-knot wind gusts that tested skippers. Notable competition included family crews and several place winners navigating the difficult sailing conditions.
Report on the South Boston Y.C.'s 91st annual Invitational Day Regatta where strong winds up to 40 knots created challenging conditions. Boats struggled back in low tide, with gusts causing dramatic incidents and blown-out sails.
Announcement of upcoming New Jersey Thistle events including the Heather Bowl Regatta and Governor's Cup spinmaker sailing event.
Regatta report on the Cognac Lake Invitational Regatta where Jim LaFollette won first place and Bill DeWitt took second.
Fleet news reports from Thistle associations across the country. Reports include fleet championships, participation numbers, and notable accomplishments from various regional Thistle fleets.
Report on a regatta held at Palo Alto where Bill Nexsen, sailing his Thistle with two other competitors, won first place. The event featured challenging wind conditions and several boats rounding the weathermark, with close competition throughout.
Report on a regatta at Goguac Lake near Battle Creek, Michigan, where the editor's pink Thistle won first place in a competitive series featuring various tactics and strategic maneuvers. The article highlights the editor's sailing skill and the entertaining nature of the competition.
The editor's pink Thistle won a regatta for the first time at Lake Battle Creek, Michigan. The boat demonstrated expert helm manship and superior tactical sailing in the Goguac Sprint series.
Report of the inaugural Thistle regatta hosted by the Tri-Lakes Sailing Association of Charleston, Mississippi in June. The event featured three days of racing with Thistles from Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas competing in favorable wind conditions.
The Tri-Lakes Sailing Association of Charleston, Mississippi held their first invitational Thistle regatta at Enid Lake near Batesville, Mississippi. John and Ann Martin won the first race Saturday, with three interesting races featuring competitive sailing and tactical challenges.
Report on the Milford Yacht Club Spring Series Thistle Championship where Ted Foutelieu's 'Grey Ghost' won five of nine possible firsts. The series featured two short races on consecutive Saturdays and Sundays with consistent sailing conditions and good wind.
Report on the Shreveport Yacht Club Annual Spring Regatta held on Cross Lake, where Thistle participants from various regions competed. Eight Thistles from the host Fleet were joined by boats from Texas and Kansas, with Larry Haupt earning top finishes.
Howard Mead dominated the Fourth Annual Thistle Regatta at Lake Guntersville on October 13-14, winning both races. Seventeen boats participated with the third race cancelled due to lack of wind.
Howard Mead won both races of the Fourth Annual Thistle Regatta at Lake Guntersville on October 13-14, demonstrating his continued dominance of South Atlantic Thistle racing.
Dick Sabin won the final invitational at Palo Alto Yacht Club sailed in moderate winds on November 11. The race featured triangular courses with multiple lead changes and tactical duels among top competitors before Sabin secured victory.
Thistle Fleet results from the Muscle Shoals Sailing Association regatta held July 28 and 29, showing that anyone can win a regatta if they try hard enough. The real secret to winning is to arrange for Howard Meads to be missing from the entry list. Results include boats from throughout the region.
Caldwell recounts the Thistle family cruise results in the Muscle Shoals Sailing Association regatta held July 28-29. Games show eight entries with a register if they keep trying long enough. The writer describes the event organization and the MNSA as a relatively new organization in the Muscle Shoals area.
Bill and Jeri DeWitt sailed to victory in the Goguac Sprints regatta with their fleet of 17 Thistles competing in four races. The DeWitts demonstrated consistent performance while other competitors pursued various tactics in variable wind conditions.
Announcement of upcoming regatta dates including the September 7-8 Cassopolis, Michigan event featuring the Diamond Jubilee, Bill Borough, Howell Point, and other fleets.
Jim Egan provides a comprehensive guide to sailing conditions on Great South Bay, describing wind patterns, tidal effects, and the seasonal variations that affect Thistle racing at the 1963 Nationals.
Roger Brett won the first Sooner Fling Invitational at Lake Ookhah in Oklahoma with strong racing in variable wind conditions that challenged the fleet throughout multiple races.
Roger Brett won the Fling Invitational held at Grand Lake, Oklahoma, flying past ten boats in the first race. Multiple wind shifts and boat races characterized the event, with Larry Haupt performing well on the spinnaker run.
Roger Brett (1481) won the first Sooner Fling Invitational regatta held by Grand Lake, Oklahoma Fleet. Requirements were changed to involve all ten boats in the first race, and sail nearly an accurate time for an exciting race that included multiple flips and lead changes.
Coronado Yacht Club hosted the Annual Small Boat Regatta June 22-23, where Mark Evans distinguished himself among the Thistlers by capturing two first places in the second and third races.
Coronado Yacht Club hosted the Annual Small Boat Regatta June 22-28. Mark Evans (918) distinguished himself among the Thistles by capturing two first places in the second and third races, followed by Charles McKenna (1277) who won two seconds.
Reports on Gene Allen's success launching his new School-built "Metamorphosis" (1630) in March, winning the Thistle class at the Spring Gold Cup Regatta with strong performances despite challenging conditions.
Gene Allen launched a brand new Schack-built 'Metamorphosis' Thistle (1390) on March 8. Two days later it emerged as winner of the Spring Gold Cup Regatta at Newport Harbor with 287 boats in 23 classes competing.
The Newport Harbor Yacht Club and Balboa Yacht Club held their winter regatta on January 26-27 with two races completed out of the planned three. Art Glazier from Fleet 84 took first place, while Bob Smith of Fleet 63 finished second and John Thorne third.
John Martin Jr. won the Bottoms-Up Regatta at Shreveport Yacht Club on May 3-5 with favorable starting line position, narrowly beating Cecil Brooke. The regatta featured light, shifty winds typical of Cross Lake and attracted 17 Thistles from Delta, Lake Michigan, and South Atlantic Districts.
Thistle Fleet 97 completed its third consecutive winning season at Folsom Lake Yacht Club's Fall Regatta on October 19-20, with R.S. Kelley Jr. taking top honors in the second consecutive year. The race was marked by nearly perfect conditions and competitive sailing.
Jim Phelps and his crew topped twenty-nine Thistles in the Annual Labor Day Regatta at Springfield, Illinois. Races were held on Lake Springfield with light and variable winds the first day and stronger winds the next day that completed the three-race event.
Jim Phelps and his sister topped twenty-nine Thistles in the Annual Labor Day Regatta at Springfield, Illinois, on Lake Springfield with light and variable wind conditions over three races.
Concho Yacht Club held its fifth Annual Labor Day Regatta at North Concho Lake, Texas on August 30-31 and September 1. Thistles from San Angelo, San Antonio and Austin participated. The regatta featured challenging race conditions with races conducted in light, variable, and strong winds over the weekend.
Thirteen Thistles from Acton, Indian and Kiser Lakes raced in the annual Tri-Lake Regatta at Acton Lake on August 24-25. Dave Ortman won the event with a 1-1-3 record, while Fleet 90 champ Bob Beavers finished third.
Thirteen Thistles from Acton and Ester Lakes fleets raced in the annual Tri-Lake Regatta at Acton Lake, Oxford, Ohio on August 24-25. Dave Ortman took first place with a 1-1-3 record, while other competitors demonstrated strong performances in varied wind conditions.
Race results from the Concho Yacht Club regatta with finisher standings and points.
Port Clinton Yacht Club hosted a Thistle summer invitational regatta on August 10 and 11, with participation from the Lake Erie West District. Dave Minton won the regatta with strong performances, while John Proctor placed second and other skippers competed in the three-race series.
The 70th annual Inter-Lake Yachting Association Regatta was held at Put-In Bay on August 5-7, with twenty-two Thistles participating in a three-race series on a triangular course. Harry White won with a near-perfect record, while Pythagurning Yacht Club swept the finishing positions.
Bobby White of Leatherips Y.D. in Columbus, Ohio won the Mallory Cup North American Men's Championship semi-finals with performances in 2, 3, 1, 3 races. The semi-finals were sailed in Thistles in unusual wind conditions, with White securing a clean sweep to advance to the finals at Annapolis.
Brief report on the Inter-Lake Yachting Association regatta held at Put-In-Bay August 5-7, with race results showing Harry White winning first place and the regatta attracting high participation from the Thistle class.
Report on the Mallory semi-finals sailing event in Thistles. Bobby White won with a clean sweep in the final series after winning preliminary races at Harnfield.
The annual Fall Gold Cup Series was held at the Newport Harbor Yacht Club as the seasonal retreat of the Thistles. Fresh breezes and milder weather contrasted with midwinter racing. Results show strong performance from multiple skippers across several races.
Regatta report from Prairie Creek where Jack LaFollette took first place, with detailed race narratives highlighting challenging weather and strategic sailing.
LaFollette (1089) took the LaFollette (1089) invitational regatta held by newly chartered Prairie Thistle Fleet #111. Ted Himsworth (758) and others competed in challenging southwest winds. The article includes detailed race results showing competitive finishes.
Report on a regatta at Lake Norman Yacht Club where new co-owner Charles Darr sailing with crew swept the series, with detailed race descriptions showing tight competition and variable winds.
Charles Darr sailing with Jack and Pas Baugh had a new sweep series May 9 and 10 at Lake Norman Yacht Club, North Carolina. This was the first time Darr skippered and the first time the Baughs ever sailed in a Thistle. Includes detailed race results showing Darr's winning performance.
A formal challenge to the Thistlers of Cowan from Fleet 21 to engage in a sailing competition. The challenge cites previous successful seasons and proposes a single-day event of maximum sailing with racing instructions and details for acceptance.
Report on Folsom Lake regatta where R. Kelley won the first place cup, with race narrative and results table showing top finishers and their performance across multiple races.
Continuation of the midwinters report describing the Thursday races and wind conditions, with detailed race finishes and commentary on the outcome.
Report from John Martin (876) describing the Thistle Invitational at Lake Hico on April 4-5 in Jackson, Mississippi, hosted by the Jackson Yacht Club offering Southern hospitality and a clean sweep victory in the Fifth Invitational.
Report of the Marblehead Challenge Bowl for Thistles regatta at Quincy Bay, Massachusetts, in which Hatch Brown and Dr. Walter Collins dominated the competition in a challenging series.
District championship race results from four different district competitions, showing standings for multiple Thistle sailors and their placements.
Report on Quincy Bay Race Week where Hatch Brown and Dr. Walter Collins won the Thistle Class competition, with details of the competitive racing.
Report on Jim Phelps' sailing achievements at the Whale of a Sail regatta, featuring competitive three-race series on the Allen pool of the Mississippi with light winds and tactical sailing.
Race report from a Miami Yacht Club sailing event where Andy Littlejohn won against Art Glazier and others. Details the competition conditions, sailing tactics, and final results from multiple races.
Detailed account of racing at the Peoria Regatta on the Illinois River. The author recounts the tactical decisions, wind conditions, and surprising incidents that led to his victory, including boat handling challenges and lucky breaks during the races.
Report of the 1965 Kentucky Lake Governor's Cup Regatta where Bill Walton demonstrated his ability to master varying wind conditions from light to heavy. Eleven Thistles were on the line with Walton winning the series, followed by other top skippers from the region.
Announcement of district championship winners from various Thistle fleets and regions, highlighting recent competitive successes.
Account of the Illinois Valley Yacht Club Invitational at Peoria, detailing a close and dramatic race with multiple challenges and near-misses for the winning skipper.
Report on the Thistle Fleet #65 Invitational Regatta at Cowan Lake where Bill Walton won with strong competition throughout.
Report on the Prairie Creek Invitational Regatta won by Howard King sailing No. 1808. Editorial note indicates the actual race report was transcribed from the Muncie Star publication.
Report on the Kentucky Lake Governor's Cup Regatta where Bill Walton demonstrated mastery of varied wind conditions in a competitive three-race series.
Feature article presenting profiles of the 1965 district champions for the Thistle Class across eight districts, including their sailing experiences, accomplishments, and philosophies on racing. Profiles include champions from New England, Delta, Michiana, Central Atlantic, Pacific Northwest, Lake Erie West, New Jersey, and Niagara Frontier districts.
Brief regatta report on Jay Dornim winning a Lake Michigan competition, noting his boat's trailer and innovative low-cost design features.
Feature about the Thistle Class 20th Anniversary Regatta held at the Cleveland Yachting Club on July 31-August 1, 1965. The event featured 107 Thistles including five National Champions competing in a memorable series with an impressive performance by young skipper Nils Dailey. Includes detailed race results and discussion of the historic nature of the event.
Regatta report on Lake Norman Yacht Club Invitational where Charles Darr won the Fleet #128 event representing one of eight different Thistle classes competing.
Comprehensive listing of race results from various Thistle district competitions and regattas throughout 1966, including PNW Districts, Memorial Day Regatta, Bagatelle Trophy, Hawaii Invitational, and other major events.
Report on the Fair Haven Fun Affair regatta held on Lake Ontario. Gene Wood won the series, demonstrating that Thistle racing can be both competitive and enjoyable.
Murphy reports on the Second Annual Sandlubber Regatta at Lake Thomas in Texas, where Willig emerged as the winner after a close and competitive series involving seven Thistles from various fleets.
Race report from the Second Annual Sandlubber Regatta at Lake Thomas Yacht Club, describing competitive conditions and how Willis triumphed in the initial race.
Continuation of the Sandlubber Regatta article describing the later races and final results.
Brief notice about the upcoming L.Y.C. Damfull Regatta, with details on the event location and sponsorship.
Honey Abramson reports on the Fifth Annual Prairie Creek Regatta held May 21 at Prairie Creek Lake where Marlin Abramson won the three-race series with a strong 7-2-1 record.
Mary Dickinson reports on the Seventh Annual Thistle Invitational Regatta of Foxhole Thistle Fleet 95 held June 17-18 at the Ivy Club on Peoria Lake, where Marlin Abramson won with a 2-2-1 series.
Report on the Seventh Annual Thistle Invitational Regatta at the Foxhole Thistle Fleet on Peoria Lake. Marlin Abramson won the event with a 2-2-1 series. The article includes detailed results and notes the participation of 28 Thistles.
Continuation of Bob Shaw's account of the HWOOAK regatta, providing additional details about the challenging racing conditions and tactical decisions made during the event.
A regatta report on the 1967 Atlantic Coast Thistle Championships held in Boston Harbor Fleet #22 at the Cottage Park Yacht Club in Winthrop, Massachusetts. With forty-four boats competing and seven power boats towing the large fleet, the racing saw strong performances from Bordes and other top skippers in variable coastal wind conditions.
Report of the 1967 New England District Thistle Championship Regatta held on July 9-8 at the Cottage Park Yacht Club. The regatta saw a warm-up for the "big event" with Doc Collins and Hatch Brown demonstrating dominance in the competition.
A regatta report on the Little Egg Harbor Yacht Club Invitational Regatta held on August 12 and 13. The article describes how the LEHYC invitation was received after the New Jersey District schedule conflict, noting that only seven Thistles responded to the invitational despite the prestigious venue and event.
A regatta report on the Broken Crank Regatta held in October 1967, featuring memorable moments and humorous incidents from the day's racing, with detailed race results provided.
A report on the first annual Thistle Junior Championship of Long Island Sound held at Cedar Point Yacht Club. Chris Pollak, 16 years old from Westport, won the championship by finishing first and second in two races with his sister Pam and crew, with other young Westport sailors finishing in top positions as well.
Report on Chris Pollak's first junior championship win at the Long Island Sound Thistle Junior Championship held at Cedar Point Yacht Club on Sunday. With his sisters Pam and Peggy as crew, Pollak finished first and second in the two races sailed.
Detailed narrative of the September invitational regatta at Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, describing race conditions, tactical situations, and the migration of participating Thistle fleet from various regions.
Report on the Fall Regatta Circuit races held at Cottage Park Yacht Club in Massachusetts over October 14-15. Describes the series of Modified Gold Cup races won by Thistle skippers with detailed results.
Continuation of wind analysis focusing on afternoon wind patterns, the Southwest wind behavior, and conclusions about prevailing wind conditions at Sayville with implications for racing strategy.
Reports on Tom Wilson's victory at the Huntington Invitational and Rod Glover's Winnetka Yacht Club regatta win with three of a kind. Includes detailed race narratives and results.
Brief regatta reports and announcements including Cedar Point races where Tom Barnard won second place, along with notes on Thistle activities throughout the racing season including various regatta standings and notable achievements.
Race report from the Lake Michigan Districts regatta in Peoria, Illinois, where Herb Whittall won despite challenging windy conditions. The article describes various technical challenges, boat failures, and competitive struggles in the difficult sailing conditions.
Race report announcing Don Heisner's return to Thistle competition after a two-year hiatus, resulting in a victory at the Mentor Harbor regatta. The article notes his previous success and competitive performance.
Race report from the Winnetka Yacht Club Regatta where Rod Glover won a competitive series featuring consistent performances by top sailors including Herb Whittall and Marlin Abramson. The article describes racing tactics and finishing positions.
Report on Peoria's unique Broken Crank Regatta held in October. Abramson (924) won with tactical racing skill. The event featured light winds and challenging racing conditions, with notes about the regatta's history and memorable moments.
Report on the Mayor's Cup Regatta at Bloomington Yacht Club on Lake Lemon, Indiana. Ed Tjardes won the first two races, securing victory in the regatta.
Summary of recent regatta news including details about various Thistle races held around the country, with emphasis on fleet participation and standout performances.
Report on Peoria's regatta where Abramson's Cranks-Her-Up won the race held at Ivy S.C., with details on sailing conditions and a broken crank incident at a separate regatta.
Report on the 8th Annual Mayor's Cup Regatta at Bloomington Yacht Club won by Ed Tjardes with race results and description of competitive conditions.
Report on Northern California Thistle Fleets' performance at the Santa Cruz Fall Invitational regatta where all Northern California Thistles took home trophies, with race results.
Coverage of various regatta events including the Middle States Regatta, St. Pete races, and other district competitions throughout the spring and summer.
Report on the annual Middle States Regatta which took place on August 31, 1968 with 85 boats competing, including analysis of wind conditions and racing dynamics.
A collection of regatta reports and racing results from the fall and winter seasons, including detailed accounts of competitions at multiple venues.
Brief report of Jim Miller's dominant performance at the Chicago Yachting One-of-a-Kind Regatta, where he swept all divisions and won the overall regatta title. He demonstrated superior sailing technique and boat handling throughout the competition.
Comprehensive collection of district and inter-district regatta reports from Thistle racing across North America, including Lake Michigan Districts, Niagara Frontier Districts, New Jersey Districts, Lake Erie West Districts, Northern California Districts, Long Island Sound Districts, and Southeastern Interdistricts. Each report includes race results and winner commentary.
Report on the Michiana Districts Boston Spikes regatta championship. Consistency was the key to Spike Boston's victory with fourth place finishes across races.
Results from the Southeastern Interdistricts Charleston Harbor regatta.
Detailed race report of the first race of the championship series, describing starting line procedures, wind conditions, and competitive outcomes.
Report from a Whale-of-a-Sail regatta on the Mississippi River Reservoir where Jim Phelps won. Includes observations about sailing conditions and final race standings.
Additional fall regatta coverage including races at various locations with detailed results and standings.
A comprehensive collection of regatta reports from multiple Thistle districts across North America, including detailed race results and standings from summer and fall events. Features include Blue Chevron and Red Chevron regatta reports from various districts with skipper names and race scores.
Race report from the Middle States regatta, describing the competitive sailing and highlighting the performance of various Thistle sailors.
Detailed analysis of meteorological and sailing conditions at Westport, including wind patterns, tidal information, and weather mechanisms affecting Long Island Sound racing area.
Report of the St. Patricks Day Regatta at Austin Yacht Club, featuring results of three races with detailed placings.
Brief notes on regatta activity in Florida including results from Thanksgiving and Tampa events.
Report on the Broad Bay S.A. Regatta where Don Moore won, describing race conditions and competitor performance.
Comprehensive coverage of multiple regional and national Thistle regattas held throughout the year, with detailed race results, finishing positions, and commentary on competition at venues including Great Lakes, Broad Bay, Lake Erie, Cedar Point, and other locations.
Complete race results table for the Broad Bay S.A. Regatta held in Maryland, showing skipper placements and final standings.
Report on the Ivy Club Invitational regatta on Lake Peoria where Kaiser won after being away from Thistles for three years.
Report of the Thanksgiving Day Wishbone Regatta on Lake Michigan, where Kent Foster narrowly won despite uncertain racing conditions and an unfinished third race.
Report of the Birmingham Sailing Club's Great Pumpkin Regatta held in October with challenging, variable wind conditions throughout the races.
Report of Palm Leis' winning effort in the Ivy Club Broken Crank Regatta on Lake Peoria, including race results and post-race festivities.
Collection of regatta results and reports from various Thistle sailing events, including Hatch Brown's Atlantic Coasts victory, Atlantic Coast Championships results, and summaries of other regional racing activity.
Comprehensive summaries of fall series regatta results from various Thistle regions, including reports on Fontelieu's Atlantic Coast Fall Series victory, Lakes Fall Series results, and multiple district championship regattas held in fall 1971.
A detailed analysis of weather patterns experienced in the Kenosha offshore racing area, categorizing wind directions and characteristics to help sailors understand and anticipate conditions during the National Championship.
Comprehensive coverage of multiple sailing regattas across different regions, including detailed race results and reports from events such as Culbertson Dominates SE Interdisticts, Clark Wins Hawaii Spring, Smith Skins Over Prairie Scudner, Gilreath Wins Admiral Farragut, Doldrums Regatta, and Prairie Scudner Regatta.
A comprehensive collection of regatta reports, race results tables, and district championships from various Thistle sailing events held throughout 1972.
A detailed account of the Brown Jug regatta where Tumlin prevailed despite challenging conditions and competitive sailing.
Collection of reports from various regional and national Thistle regattas held in summer 1972, including results from Blue Chevron, Great Lakes Championships, and Atlantic Coast events.
Coverage of regional and district regattas held throughout the summer of 1972, including Great Lakes Championships, Michiana Districts, Atlantic Coast Championships, Mid-America District Championship, and other fleet events, with detailed race results and skipper information.
Report of Ron Meissner's victory in the Broken Crank regatta with details on racing conditions and competitor standings.
Report of the Island Bay Yacht Club's annual Mid-States regatta held in Springfield, Illinois, describing challenging wind and water conditions experienced by competitors.
A report on the Glimmerglass regatta, noting that John Fenno of Otsego Lake won the competition again, continuing his streak of victories at the event.
A regatta report noting that flukey fall weather prevented races in Boston, despite a world record achievement by TED (a Thistle boat).
Race report describing the LEW District Championship at North Cape Yacht Club on Lake Erie, which developed from scattered morning winds to challenging conditions requiring significant sailing skill and teamwork from competitors.
Report on the Oktoberfest Regatta where winner and scoring details showcase competitive racing from the fall sailing season.
Information about the 1974 Thistle Midwinters West regatta to be held at Mission Bay in San Diego, California from January 25-27. The event will feature the Best of the West competition with expected competition for the Purple Chevron and championship honors, including Don Clark from Seattle.
Report on Painton's racing success in the Governor's Cup Regatta during late June/early July, detailing wind conditions and competitive performance across multiple races at the event.
Race results from the Gay 90's Regatta on June 9-10, 1973, documenting skipper placements across multiple races.
Collection of regatta reports and race results from various Thistle events around the country, including Blue Chevron Championships, Great Lakes Championships, and regional district competitions.
Results and race standings from the Great Pumpkin Regatta held by Birmingham Sailing Club's fifth annual event for Thistles. Includes detailed race results and participant scores.
Detailed race standings and results for the Great Pumpkin Thistle Regatta competition, showing individual race scores and cumulative placings.
Brief report on a regatta race between teams called the Meissner Marauders and Raymond racers, detailing competitive results and sailor participation.
Report on the Cape Cod Open Thistle Regatta held in the Woods Hole area near the Atlantic Coast. Details racing conditions, results, and sailor performances at this fall regatta.
Coverage of recent regional Thistle regattas and championship results, including detailed race reports and finishing positions from various districts and events nationwide.
Brief reports of recent Thistle racing victories including Pollak winning the Atlantic Coast Championship, Steigerwald winning the Lake Erie West Districts, and Hale winning the Niagara Frontier District Championship.
Coverage of various Thistle class regatta results from the 1974 sailing season, including the South Atlantic District Championships and F.S.A. Championships in Tampa with detailed race results and standings.
Comprehensive compilation of race results and regatta reports from various Thistle events throughout 1974, including Naptown, Spring Fling, Sarasota Labor Day, and Cape Cod regattas with detailed standings and race results.
Compilation of race results and regatta reports from various Thistle competitions including wins by Jim Kincaid at Naptown (September 1974), Siegh in Spring Fling, Richards at Cape Cod Open, and other regional racing. Includes detailed race results tables and competitor rankings.
Comprehensive coverage of various regattas, district championships, and racing events including multiple race results and standings from across the country.
Report on the Round-the-Island Race held in foggy weather on Deer Isle. Despite heavy fog, forty-two yachts participated in the sixteen-mile race to Center Harbor and the second day's racing was cancelled.
Comprehensive race results and reports from multiple regattas including Vaughan Wins Great Autumn Regatta, Kincaid Wins Turkeyfoot Fall Regatta, Fenno Wins Glimmergllass, and various other sailing competitions. Contains detailed race tables with placements and point scores.
A comprehensive report of multiple Thistle Class regattas from the 1974-1975 season, including the Pollak Sweeps Great Lakes, Niagara Frontier Districts, Jack Bauer Wins at Berlin, and Rowell Wins P.N.W. Districts, with detailed race results tables.
Report on the Mentor Harbor Yacht Club regatta where Mark Gilliland finished first, with results showing strong northeast winds and competitive racing with detailed final standings.
Chris Pollak (No. 1708) wins the Mallory Cup USYRU men's championship while sailing in the Flying Scots on Lake Pontchartrain in New Orleans. The eight-race series was competitive with multiple lead changes throughout, with Pollak ultimately prevailing against strong regional competition.
Chris Pollak won the prestigious Mallory Cup championship sailing in New Orleans, defeating strong competitors including renowned sailors Corny Shields and Gene Walet. The article details the competitive series with various wind and weather conditions throughout the races.
On September 13-14, forty-two Thistles gathered at Hoover Yacht Club for the prestigious regatta. Ric Gilliland (No. 2995) won with strong finishes, overcoming challenging wind and weather conditions on Saturday night that required adjustments in the racing schedule.
Race report from the Hoover Regatta where Gilliland achieved first place. The article describes challenging conditions and the competitive nature of the event on a autumn weekend.
Decatur, Illinois Fleet 66 hosted its second annual Thistle regatta on September 20-21. Fleet winners sailed in a gusty westerly of 15 to 18 knots with Race Committee managing well despite challenging conditions and tight racing throughout.
A record-breaking entry of 36 Thistles participated in Otsego Sailing Club's eighth annual Glimmerglass Regatta at Cooperstown, New York on September 13-14. Despite Saturday weather challenges with shifty winds, Fenno won decisively with strong finishes, setting up an exciting regatta.
Report on the Southeastern Fall Series won by deManio's boat Slippery-When-Wet IV. The article describes varied wind conditions throughout the series and discusses boat handling techniques and crew performance.
Report on the Thistle invitational regatta in Decatur, Illinois, where competitive racing in various wind conditions produced close finishes and interesting competitive moments.
Report on the Glimmerglass Regatta at Otsego Lake in New York where Fenno achieved victory in competitive racing with multiple race finishes.
The Fifth Annual Old Salty Regatta was held at Lake Norman Yacht Club on September 13-14. Peter deManio (No. 3429) dominated the event with a first-place finish, with strong second-place competition providing competitive racing throughout the regatta.
Report on the Fifth Annual Old Salty Regatta at Lake Norman Yacht Club in September where deManio took first place in competitive conditions. The article describes wind patterns and competitive moments throughout the races.
Section featuring multiple regatta reports from various Thistle Class districts including Bob White's Great Lakes Championships win, results from other regional sailing events and competitions.
William Pflaumer reports on the Annual Spring Thistle Invitational held June 14-15 at the Ivy Club in Peoria, Illinois. Describes improved sailing conditions and reflects on the regatta as successful community event.
Coverage of various regional Thistle regattas and championship events across multiple districts, including detailed race results and standings.
Comprehensive coverage of multiple regatta competitions throughout the season, including district championships and national qualifiers, with detailed race results and commentary from various venues.
Continuation of President's message addressing midwinters planning and rule enforcement, followed by detailed race instructions for the 1976 Thistle Midwinter Championship including course specifications, starting procedures, and scoring rules.
Race report from the 1976 Indiana Governor's Cup Regatta held June 26-27 at Lake Monroe. Howdy King and other competitors faced challenging wind conditions during the event.
Regatta report covering the Spring Fling event where Lynn-Nye (2846) showed consistent performance, winning the regatta by taking the lead early and maintaining it throughout. Various competitors and results are documented with details of sailing conditions and performances.
Report on the Mentor Regatta with Thirty-seven Thistles on hand competing in varied conditions. Cross emerged as the top finisher with detailed race results provided for all competitors in this regatta on Lake Erie East.
Race report from the Mentor Regatta held June 19-20. Cross won the championship with strong performances across races at the Lake Murray Sailing Club. The event included discussion of wind conditions and competitive performances from various skippers.
Race report of the Fourth of July regatta where Jim Kincaid emerged victor despite tight competition. Features detailed race analysis and personal anecdotes about notable competitors and their performances.
Brief announcement of winners from the Mid-Winters regatta.
Report on the Jubilee Thistle Regatta held at Fairhope Yacht Club in Alabama with detailed race results showing the top competitors and their finishes across multiple races.
Report on the Second Annual Jubilee Thistle Regatta hosted by the Thistle Fleet in St. Petersburg, with results showing Porter deManio winning and comprehensive race standings for all competitors.
A detailed analysis of racing conditions at Kingston, including weather patterns, water temperatures, boat-handling tactics, and wind conditions specific to the location and season.
Detailed meteorological analysis of wind patterns at Association Island, discussing pressure systems, weather patterns, and implications for racing strategy during the summer season.
Report on Rod Glover's victory in the Highwater Regatta held on sparkling waters with keen competition in the First Division.
Details about the 1977 Thistle Midwinter Championship regatta including entry requirements, registration procedures, race instructions, and trophy awards for various divisions.
Report on the Mayor's Cup Regatta held by the Bloomington Yacht Club at Lake Leatherltips on September 25-26, 1976. Leach's boat wins with strong performances despite variable wind conditions.
Report on the ninth annual Glimmerglass Regatta held on Otsego Lake, featuring nearly 40 boats. Fenno took first place with multiple race victories, with results detailed in a comprehensive table.
Race report from the Fairhope Yacht Club's Jubilee Regatta and Fall Series conclusion where Loy Vaughan won the Buchan Thistle Pottery trophy using the Cox-Sprague scoring system.
Report on the Great Pumpkin Regatta held October 23-24 at Birmingham Sailing Club where Matt Gregory won with superior sailing in variable wind conditions.
Report on the Birmingham Sailing Club's eighth annual Great Pumpkin Regatta held October 23-24. Matt Gregory's boat won despite variable wind conditions with good participation from Atlanta Yacht Club.
Report on the Sturgeon Bay Invitational regatta where Andy Barnes of the Winnetta Thistle Fleet won convincingly. Details Andy's first place finishes and notes about the event being the sixth in the Mid-Winters West series.
Report on the Southeast Fall Regatta Loy Vaughan Downs Bloody Mary where Loy Vaughan won following competitive racing in variable wind conditions.
Collection of announcements and updates about upcoming regattas, class information, and commercial advertisements.
Report of the Southeastern Spring Series regatta won by Johnny Sinclair, highlighting the competition level and finish standings.
Report on Fairhope Yacht Club regatta won by Art Molitor, featuring multiple competitors from Southeast and special emphasis on mother-maid team participation.
A regatta report on the Fairhope Yacht Club's Jubilee Regatta won by Art Molitor, with results from multiple races and skippers from Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and other southeastern states competing.
A regatta report on the Doldrums Regatta where Matt Gregory achieved victory despite light air conditions. The report includes race results and details about the competition.
Report of the Corinthian Yacht Club of Tacoma's first annual One Design Regatta held June 18th and 19th, featuring Laura's victory and analysis of competition.
A report on the Pacific Coast Regattas where Will Seelig and Dave Ullman dominated the competition. The article includes detailed race results and commentary on the competitive racing that took place.
Brief report on the Harbortown Regatta race where Mike Pinter (#3526) won with two close races. The article includes the race results table showing the top finishers and notes the competitive and sunny conditions.
Report on the Spring Fling regatta at Lake Michigan, which hosted the 4th annual Lake Michigan District Thistle Fleet #149 event. Karen Larsen Neilson describes the weather conditions and includes race results for the event.
Various brief regatta reports and announcements including details on Great Lakes Championships, district championships, and upcoming events.
Report on the second annual Labor Day Thistle Regatta at North Flathead Yacht Club in Somers, Montana, with detailed race results showing Tracy as winner and discussion of racing conditions and fleet performance.
Report of the second annual Labor Day Thistle Regatta at North Flathead Yacht Club in Somers, Montana. Tracy won the event, with competitive racing in typical Montana weather conditions including wind variations and tactical challenges.
Report on the second annual Labor Day Thistle Regatta at Flathead Lake in Montana, where Tracy and Thaler from Spokane and Hanson won, with strong participation from Washington and Idaho sailors in beautiful Finger Lake conditions.
Report on the Albacore Regatta in Richmond County where Irv Liggett won the series. Describes racing conditions, notable performances, and includes race results tables.
Report on the VISA Invitational at Virginia Island Sailing Association where Loy Moore and crew dominated the competition in strong winds. Includes race results and descriptions of racing tactics.
Report on the Broken Crank Regatta in Peoria where Champ Glover won with consistent performances. Details the race conditions and results across the competitive field.
Report on regatta at Cedar Point Yacht Club with close finishes and competitive racing. Describes strategic sailing, weather conditions, and includes comprehensive race results.
Report on Great Pumpkin Regatta in Birmingham where Loy Vaughan won the series. Describes racing conditions, strategies, and includes comprehensive race results table.
A report on the Super Sail regatta where Gover achieved an exceptional victory, competing against other strong fleets with varied wind conditions.
A regatta report from the eighth annual Old Salty Thistle Regatta held in North Carolina where Tom Evans won the championship in competitive conditions with strong performances from other regional boats.
A regatta report from Geist Reservoir where Champ Glover won the second annual championship in successive years with ideal sailing conditions and tight competitive racing.
A regatta report from the fourth annual Decatur Invitational Regatta where champion Andy Barnes and runner-up Champ Glover sailed with different crew combinations in a competitive field.
A regatta report from the Doldrums Regatta at Percy Priest Yacht Club in Tennessee where Loy Vaughan won with close competition across the four races.
Davis Island Y.C. wins the Southeast Perpetual Award for Excellence in Thistle Regatta Management, recognizing outstanding effort in hosting the 1977 Southeastern Interdistricts event with professional judging and comprehensive event management.
Announcement of the 1978 Schedule of Chevron Events listing regional and national Thistle racing events across North America with dates, locations, and host clubs.
Comprehensive schedule of Chevron regattas and Thistle fleet events planned for 1978 across all regions of the Thistle Class Association.
Race report from the Seventh Annual Old Salty Regatta held at Lake Norman Yacht Club in September 1977, where Bud Sweet and his family sailed to victory with a 3-2-2 series win.
Race report on Bud Sweet's sailing victory at the Seventh Annual Old Salty Regatta at Lake Norman Yacht Club. Details course conditions, individual boat performances, and final results from the weekend's races.
Race report from the Indian Summer Regatta at Chandler's Landing Yacht Club in Dallas, where Jim Kincaid dominated with nine first-place finishes across multiple races.
Report on Andy Barnes' victory at the Sturgeon Bay regatta, with detailed race results and description of challenging fall sailing conditions on Lake Michigan.
Report on the First Annual Ladies Regatta at Cedar Point Yacht Club, featuring all-female skipper competitors. Details the racing conditions and individual performances over multiple races with light air and beautiful weather.
Announcement of team racing championship competition at Bristol Yacht Club featuring Thistle fleets competing in teams of three boats for overall fleet honors and bragging rights.
Report on the Greater Richmond regatta with Jewell's competitive performance and details of the Thistle Fleet #171 charter in the Swift Creek area of Virginia.
Report on the tenth annual Glimmerglass Regatta featuring John Fenno's dominant performance with nine first-place finishes. Details competitive racing and individual boat performances under various wind conditions.
Racing coverage of the Preakness Series with participation from multiple yacht clubs and emphasis on varied sailing conditions throughout the series.
Report on the Southeast Fall Series with Vaughan defending his trophy title, featuring results table and regatta summaries from multiple locations.
Report on the Great Lakes Fall Series West regatta with Champ Glover winning, including comprehensive race results and fleet summaries.
Report on the Windy Jubilee regatta at the Fairhope Yacht Club featuring Art Molitor's victory in challenging wind and wave conditions with detailed race-by-race descriptions.
Report on the Windy Jubilee regatta at the Hastings-on-Hudson Yacht Club with Art Molitor making strong showing in competitive conditions.
First race of Division 1 with 50-knot wind at 5 knots. Irv Liggett took an early lead with strong competition from Barnes, Gilliland, and others.
Second race of Division 1 with 40-knot, 10-12 knot winds. Andy Barnes got the clear air he wanted and took off on a starboard tack, with other strong sailors following.
Division 2 race showing position-shuffling among the fleet. Gilliland passed Fritz on first reach and held his lead on the second with Laura moving into second place.
Division 2 race where the winner's report on race one was short and enviably simple. Larry Klein spotted a header of about 15 degrees on starboard white sailing before the race.
Championship fleet stayed on the lake for sixth race. Gilliland was not to be counted out, though the comebrace routine he excelled at this week proved not to be his luck this time.
Brief report on race results from a regatta at ISI Rob Boy, listing skipper standings and final positions.
Report of the Spring Fling regatta where Alan Veenstra topped the field, with results and details about the competitive racing.
Report on the Spring Fling regatta where Alan Veenstra demonstrated strong sailing in brisk wind conditions, with detailed race results and details about the event.
A race report on the SE Spring Series with results showing Loy Vaughan's victory and detailed standings for the five races, describing wind conditions and course challenges.
A regatta report on the Alum Creek Spring Series describing the racing conditions and top performances including an overview of trophy presentations.
Account of the 1979 Southeast Series regatta marked by heavy winds and light gasoline, with detailed results from each regatta in the series including Orange Peel, Admiral Farragut, Dixie, and Bottoms Up.
Report of the South Atlantic Thistle Districts regatta where consistency in sailing and strong performance throughout determined the winner, with detailed analysis of race results and individual skipper performances.
Race report from the Geist regatta where Champ Clover achieved overall victory, with coverage of racing conditions, technique commentary, and final standings.
Report of the Decatur Invitational Regatta where Andy Barnes and Champ Glover again battled for top honors, with detailed race standings and commentary on competitive sailing.
Report of the Doldrums Regatta held at Percy Priest Yacht Club in Nashville where Loy Vaughan achieved victory in close competition with Bren McKenzie.
Race report from the Great Pumpkin Regatta hosted by Birmingham Sailing Club, describing dramatic weather conditions and race results with humor and detail.
Race report from the eleventh annual Glimmerglass Regatta at Otsego Sailing Club in Cooperstown, New York, describing twenty-one Thistle skippers competing in variable wind conditions.
Race report from the Jubilee regatta with detailed results showing Molitor's strong performance in multiple races.
Detailed report of Southeast Fleet regatta series with comprehensive race results showing McKenzie's victory and standings across multiple regattas.
Detailed race report from the Lake Erie Fleet Fall Series with descriptions of specific races and final standings showing tight competition.
Race report from the Klein Kops Kube Klassic at Crescent Sail Yacht Club, describing cold weather sailing and competitive results.
Race report from the eleventh annual Glimmerglass East Regatta held on Otsego Lake in upstate New York, featuring strong winds and tactical racing.
Race report from Fenno East regatta at Glimmerglass with competitor rankings and placings.
Summary of the Five-Regatta Southeast series results, comparing performance across multiple events with McKenzie consistently strong and Vaughan in close pursuit.
Race report of the Klein Kops Kube Klassic at Crescent Sail Yacht Club, featuring vintage boat entries and strong competition led by Larry Klein.
Comprehensive article on sailing conditions in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts. Discusses the geography, favorable thermal effects, wind patterns, local conditions unique to the bay, and why it is a popular destination for Thistle racing. Includes technical information about wind shifts and current patterns for sailors planning to race there.
Race report from the Arizona Invitational regatta. Describes the performance of top competitors and racing conditions, with final standings showing Cummings' results.
Report on the Fort Worden regatta won by Warren, Howard and Beatrice Seelig, with detailed race results and descriptions of sailing conditions at this Pacific Northwest venue.
Report from a regional trophy series regatta at Fort Worden, Washington, where Howard Seelig (2973) and Beatrice Seelig (2973) captured first place in a well-organized event featuring strong competition and excellent sailing conditions.
An account of the Twentieth Anniversary Regatta at the Cleveland Yacht Club where numerous Thistle records were set. The article celebrates the exceptional turnout and competitive performance, noting the prestigious nature of the event and its significance for the Thistle Class.
Florida Districts championship report describing Lake Monroe racing where challenging light and shifty wind conditions led to significant fleet participation and interesting sailing tactics.
Highwater Invitational held on Lake Monroe where challenging weather and variable wind conditions led to sailors practicing tactics and handling techniques to maintain position.
Report on the Highwater Invitational on Lake Monroe showing Tom Glover's strong performances leading to victory.
Article about Boston Sails' dominance in major Thistle racing events on both coasts, noting their success at Midwinters West, Midwinters East, and Pacific/Atlantic Coast Championships.
Collection of regatta reports from various Thistle racing events throughout the season, including Old Goat Regatta, High Sierra Regatta, Naptown Regatta, Sarasota Labor Day Regatta, Tribune Cup, and Lewiston Thistle Fleet racing results.
Boston Sails reports their dominance in Thistle racing at two regional championships on opposite coasts, highlighting consistent victories across multiple events.
Comprehensive coverage of regional and national Thistle regattas held during the 1981-1982 season with race results and highlights from various events.
Comprehensive coverage of multiple fleet regattas and district championships throughout 1982, including race results, winners, and event summaries.
Comprehensive coverage of multiple Thistle Class regattas across different regions, including results and detailed accounts of racing conditions and winners.
A comprehensive section covering multiple regional regattas and racing events from various Thistle fleets including reports from SCAL Gillman Cup, SEFS Bloody Mary Regatta, ECFS Cedar Point Regatta, CA Octoberfest, and various other championships, with race results and winner listings.
Collection of regatta reports and results from various Thistle fleets and districts covering events in 1983.
Regatta report from SESS Bottomsup Regatta at Lake Lanier with Tom Hubbell describing race conditions and results with Fisher prevailing and other notable finishers.
Regatta report from SESS Bottoms Up Regatta describing race results and social events.
Regatta report from SESS Doldrums Regatta at Muscle Shoals Sailing Club describing the series and winner.
Collection of three regatta reports covering Riffe Lake Regatta, Atlantic Coast Championships, and various interdistrict sailing events.
Complete race results and final standings for the 1985 Thistle Mid-Winters West Championship Division and Commodore Division competitions.
Comprehensive regatta reporting covering multiple events and locations, with detailed race results and coverage of various Thistle fleet competitions throughout the fall and winter.
Report on the Lake Michigan District regatta held at Sturgeon Bay Yacht Club on September 22-23, 1984, with 25 experienced participants testing various sailing conditions ranging from survival to nearly perfect.
Section covering multiple regional regatta reports including High Sierra Regatta, Hells Canyon Regatta, Huntington Lake Event, Michiana Championship, Winnetka Supersail XIII, and Delaware River Perpetual events.
Comprehensive race results section covering Great Lakes Interdistrics (Dryden wins), Central Atlantic District Event (Finefrock wins), and Goetz Regatta (Pollack dominates) with detailed finishing results from each competition.
Updates on various regional regattas and championship events including the Atlantic Coast Championship at Cedar Point Yacht Club and promotional information about upcoming sailing events.
Report of the Billie Boswell Memorial Regatta held at Lake Cachuma, August 24-25. The Lightnings invited seven intrepid Thistles to share their regatta. Despite challenging wind conditions and a capsize by one boat, the event was considered a success with participants praising the venue.
Comprehensive collection of regatta reports and race results from various Thistle fleets and regions including Carolina Districts, Dixie Regatta, Mid-America Districts, Pacific Coast Championship, Great Lakes Championship, and other regional events.
Collection of regatta reports covering multiple 1987 sailing events including Admiral Farragut Regatta, Huntington Lake Regatta, Central Atlantic District Championship, Long Island Sound Districts, Summer Regatta, and Great Lakes Championships.
Report on the Lake Almanor regatta where Thistle skippers competed in light air conditions. The regatta featured varied wind conditions and challenging sailing with Smith taking first place, followed by Sevedy and others.
Report on the 16th annual Supersail regatta held at Winnetka Yacht Club in July 1988, featuring competitive racing with 13 boats and notable performances by local skippers.
A humorous account of the first weekend in August on the Chesapeake Bay featuring light air racing and various crew mishaps, with focus on one boat's dramatic comeback and competitive spirit.
A race report from the Fifteenth annual Supersail Regatta at Winnetka Yacht Club on Lake Michigan where Mark Ketelsen and crew won in light air sailing conditions with close competition throughout.
A race report from the 1987 Great Pumpkin Regatta at Birmingham Sailing Club near Pell City, Alabama, where light winds and good hospitality made for an enjoyable event with competitive racing.
A race report from the 1987 Grand Annual Regatta at Cave Run Lake featuring the National One-Design and Coronado 15 classes, where Dick Tarr achieved first place and Carol Robinson placed second overall.
Andy Russell reports on the 1988 Southeastern Interdistricts held at Lake Norman Yacht Club, where 27 Thistles gathered for competition and camaraderie among sailors from multiple southeastern districts.
Report on the 1988 New Jersey Districts Thistle Fleet #176 regatta held on Lake Nockamixton, featuring challenging weather conditions, multiple race cancellations, and detailed race-by-race accounts of competition.
Report of October 2-3 regatta at Lake of the Pines, Texas. Race report details the close competition and changing wind conditions.
Report on the April 22-23 Southeastern Thistle Districts regatta at Atlanta Yacht Club. David Hartman's fleet took first, with details on winning strategies, crew compositions, and social activities including a keg of beer and steak dinner.
Report of the May 6-7 Pasco Desert Regatta near Pasco on the Snake River, Arizona. The event featured the largest Thistle Class fleet with 25 boats competing in varied wind conditions. Reports highlight local sailing knowledge advantages, Team racing dynamics, and memorable race moments with trophy recipients listed.
Report from the Cave Run Lake regatta held in October. The regatta featured a beautiful autumn weekend setting with competitive sailing and various social activities. Courses designed to test sailor skills with wind and water conditions creating a good "escape weekend" experience.
Report of the 1989 Thistle Atlantic Coast Championships held at Newport with 59 boats over a weekend, describing the course layout, race conditions, and performance of top competitors in this major regional regatta.
Chapin, South Carolina hosted a centennial celebration featuring a unique challenge match race between the Thistle fleet and a local J24 fleet. The format was an "M" course designed to showcase sailing with spectators, local clubs, and media coverage.
Millen reports on the 1989 Pacific Northwest District Regatta at Shilshole, featuring thirty-two Thistles competing with light air and various wind conditions throughout the weekend.
Millen recounts the Yale Lake Regatta in Portland featuring 33 Thistles competing over a weekend of variable wind conditions. The report includes an anecdote about Harry Wingard's protest experience and a story about "dealing with the Gods."
Report on the second annual Great Pumpkin Regatta held by the Butte Sailing Club on October 28, featuring unique pumpkin-themed boat construction requirements and races.
Report on the second annual Pumpkin Regatta at Forebay with details about race conditions, boat designs, and winners, including a photo of Van Alstyne's winning creation.
Report on the September 9-10, 1989 Hoover Thistle Regatta in challenging weather conditions, with detailed race results.
Report on the Memorial Day Regatta at Eugenia Yacht Club's inland 14's championship, which was the largest Thistle one-design class regatta with 20 boats from various areas. The article describes variable wind conditions, race strategy, and individual skipper performances over five races.
Report on the Plymouth Handicap Regatta held June 22, 1991 at the New Castle Sailing Club, featuring handicap racing and trophy awards for various boat classes.
Report on the Adirondack Invitational held at Saratoga Lake Sailing Club, featuring 30 Thistles and other one-design classes in an interdist regatta with race results and festivities.
Report on the Winnetka regatta held July 20-21, 1991, where Mark Ketelsen dominated with winning performances across all races.
Report on the High Sierra Regatta where Mike Gillum returned to form to win the event, with detailed race results and standings.
Jett reports on the Thoroughbred Regatta held at Cave Run Lake in Kentucky where 12 Thistle skippers competed. The weather was threatening initially but cleared for good racing with three races completed and different winners.
Gillum reports on the West Coast Interdistrics held at Long Beach where 22 Thistlers converged for close racing with teams competing for first position throughout.
Kingshill reports on the Plymouth Handicap Regatta where 20 boats answered the call by New Castle Sailing Club to compete for five trophies. Light winds and a competitive course provided keen racing for the seven classes.
Hudson reports on the Adirondack Invitational at Saratoga Lake where 26 Thistlers from multiple regions competed over two days with tight competition resulting in awards for top finishers.
Mortimore provides a humorous account of the Desert Regatta held at Ice Harbor Reservoir, with amusing anecdotes about capsizes, protests, and unconventional racing on a remote lake.
Winslow reports on the Battle Creek Sprints where seven Thistles competed in light winds with close racing. The event featured excellent food and was won by Valla with Harvey and Gehlhausen finishing close behind.
Gehlhausen reports on the Highwater Regatta at Lake Monroe where 24 Thistlers gathered for a well-hosted event. Multiple fleets contributed to organizing and supporting the regatta with excellent participation.
Article reports on Thistle participation in the 1991 Mallory and Sears Cup competitions, crediting the success of participants and noting the custom boats built by Doug Laber. Lists the Thistle class coordinators and other team members involved in both events.
Report on the 45th annual Sarasota Labor Day Regatta where light and changing winds created challenging racing conditions. Fleet sailed very tightly with most finishes around a boat length apart.
Report on the Wild Turkey Regatta in Milledgeville, Georgia where 18 Thistlers competed in near-perfect sailing conditions with five races completed. Notable that Jim King successfully fundraised for his second crew trip, and mention of the Obsts' potential future location move.
A comprehensive section containing multiple race reports from major Thistle regattas including Sturgeon Bay Fall Regatta, Ohio Valley Championships, Gillman Cup, Lake Michigan Districts, Lake Erie Fall Series, Pymatuning Independence Day Regatta, Michiana Regatta, and Bloody Mary regatta.
Peter Dickinson covers the Winnetka Supersail Regatta where Mark Ketelsen demonstrated sailing mastery with his home-field advantage. The article includes detailed race results and interesting stories about competitive dynamics.
Hudson reports on the 1993 Adirondack Thistle Invitational held in Saratoga Lake, New York, featuring 27 Thistles and various other boats. The regatta faced challenging weather with shifts and variable conditions but produced successful racing and social events.
Foster reports on the Cedar Point Yacht Club Fall Regatta held on October 3-4. He describes the challenging wind conditions and performance of top competitors, noting that strong skills were required to manage the variable conditions.
This report covers the Sturgeon Bay Fall Thistle Regatta in September, where strong gales and shifting conditions forced changes to the race schedule. Despite challenging weather, sailors competed in modified courses with shorter races.
Race results from the Sturgeon Bay Fall Thistle Regatta showing final standings for competitors across various fleet positions and points.
Hart reports on the Great Pumpkin Regatta held in October at a Thistle fleet. He describes ideal sailing conditions and competition results, with special recognition given to top finishers and notable performances.
A comprehensive race report from the Midwinters East regatta featuring Andy Fox's narrow victory over other competitors, with detailed narrative descriptions of racing conditions and individual performances throughout the week.
Herndon reports on the 55th annual Mid-States Regatta at Island Bay Yacht Club where Dave Valla won with stellar finishes. The article describes the light-to-medium wind conditions and social activities surrounding the event.
The Howells describe the first Sail Bear Charity Regatta at Big Bear Lake in Southern California where 57 Thistles participated. The event featured challenging racing conditions and was designed to promote sailing on the lake while supporting a charitable cause.
Jett provides a humorous perspective from the back of the fleet during the Cave Run Thoroughbred Regatta at Cave Run Lake in Kentucky. The article describes the challenging sailing conditions and experiences of newer and less competitive sailors.
Report on Thistle Fleet 130's regatta at Lake Glendale, Pennsylvania where Marty Wilt won despite shifty winds and challenging conditions. Details about the race strategy and top finishers.
Charley Jett describes the Third Annual Thoroughbred Regatta held at Cave Run Lake in Kentucky where fourteen Thistles competed in beautiful weather, with Jim Baker dominating the finish line and multiple sailors sharing in the success.
Mark Gehlhausen reports on the annual Thistle Fleet 161 Highwater Regatta held at Lake Monroe in Bloomington, Indiana, where fourteen boats participated in perfect sailing conditions and completed multiple races.
David Hudson reports on the Adirondack Thistle Invitational held at Saratoga Lake, where Eric Gesner and crew won the event with strong performances across difficult weather conditions that tested all competitors.
A report on the High-water Regatta at Bloomington, Indiana on May 15-16, 1993, featuring 19 skippers and crews from Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky and Illinois, with results showing Dave Bloomberg from Indianapolis winning with Bruce King and Erin as crew.
A detailed account of the annual Thoroughbred Regatta held at Cave Run Lake near Morehead, Kentucky on May 22 and 23, 1993, describing weather conditions, race management, and the experience from the perspective of a mid-fleet competitor.
A report on the 21st running of the Winnetka (IL) Yacht Club's Supersail regatta over July 24-25, with Doug Slater winning overall with crew Bruce King and Erin, competing against other skippers from the region.
A report on the Broken Crank Regatta held at Island Bay Yacht Club on Lake Springfield in Illinois on September 18th, with Island Bay reviving its Sunfish fleet and Thistles bringing young sailors into the sport for competitive racing.
A regatta report from the 1993 Fontelieu Thistle Invitational, the fourth event in the East Coast Fall Series, featuring challenging weather conditions with heavy seas and high winds that tested the fleet.
Eighteen Thistles and other small boat sailors competed in the Glimmerglass Invitational held September 18-19, 1993 in Cooperstown, NY. After windless Saturday conditions, Sunday's races featured stronger winds and challenging conditions that tested sailor skills and boats.
Report of the 41st annual Julep Cup regatta hosted by the Louisville Sailing Club in Prospect, Kentucky, featuring race results and conditions.
Report of the Lake Monroe sailing regatta held May 20-21 featuring high water conditions that made for challenging sailing, with McDonald winning the event after dominant first-place finishes on both days.
Report of the Fourth-of-July Regatta held at Otsego Sailing Club in Cooperstown, NY featuring 17 Thistles competing with strong racing and tie-breakers determining placement.
Report of the 27th annual Glimmerglass Regatta on Otsego Lake with race results and commentary on the conditions and winners.
Report of the Horrocks Memorial Regatta at Sayville Yacht Club with race results and details about the competitive conditions and awards.
Complete race results table from the 1995 event showing finish positions and point totals for all competing skippers and crew members.
TCA President Dave Valla won the SuperSail Regatta at Winnetka Yacht Club's 50th anniversary event in July. The regatta featured 14 boats competing under varied conditions with multiple races held.
Report on the Labor Day Regatta held at Lake Maumelle, Little Rock, Arkansas with Fleet 146. Describes three races sailed in light to non-existent breeze on Saturday with better wind on Sunday.
A report on the Larry Klein Memorial match racing regatta held in San Diego, featuring unique fleet racing formats and competitive highlights.
A report on the Great Pumpkin Regatta held in Birmingham, Alabama, featuring the success of Greg and Scott Griffin and great weather conditions.
Report of the High Water Regatta scheduled for Lake Monroe being flooded and postponed, set to reschedule for the following September.
Overview of regional fall regatta series in the Mid America District, highlighting specific events and opportunities for participation across various locations.
Report of Thoroughbred Regatta at Cave Run Lake, Kentucky where mothers sailed free, with excellent weather and friendly competition throughout the weekend.
Report on Greg Griffin's dominant performance in the Southeast Fall Series championship using the Cox Sprague scoring method across multiple regattas.
Report on the Old Salty Regatta held at Lake Norman Yacht Club on October 14-15, 1995, featuring race results and commentary on wind conditions and the Russell family's participation.
A report on the Cave Run Lake regatta featuring 39 boats from multiple classes, race results, and descriptions of the beautiful lake setting and racing conditions, along with event results table.
A detailed report on the Wild Turkey Regatta in Georgia featuring 20 Thistles competing in beautiful weather with close racing and multiple race winners, along with complete results table.
Report on the Arizona Thistle Invitational regatta held on April 13-14, 1996 at Lake Pleasant, Arizona. Twelve teams competed in varied and challenging conditions, with Fred Nagel taking the win.
Joe Epstein reports on the SuperSail XXIV regatta at Lake Michigan, describing the challenging conditions and competitive racing on the Big Pond.
Report on the Grand Annual Regatta with light wind competition results showing various skippers and their scores across four races, with details on sailing conditions and top finishers.
Report on the Thoroughbred Regatta at Cave Run Lake featuring humorous observations about competitive sailing, trophy presentations, and the event's successful organization and outcomes.
Allan Gowans describes the inaugural 1996 Toucan Duet regatta at Erie Yacht Club, a new husband-wife championship concept featuring two-handed teams. The article includes event details, participant results, and discussion of making it an annual tradition.
Steve Lavender of Winnetka, Illinois dominates Sturgeon Bay's Fall Thistle Regatta with consistent first-place finishes in light winds, aided by crew including Carl Aavik and Angela Canda.
Mike Ingram wins the 29th annual Glimmerglass Regatta at Otsego Lake in Cooperstown, New York with consistent first-place finishes, followed by strong performances from other top competitors.
After a six-year hiatus, the Fair Haven Yacht Club welcomes Thistle sailors back for their annual regatta, with Charlie Murphy taking first place in conditions that shifted throughout the weekend.
Neal Deaves of Louisville won the Fleet 16's Annual High Water Regatta on Lake Monroe, sailing single-handed with four races in light air on the rescheduled September event.
A travel narrative about sailboat racing at Lake Arrowhead in the Rim of the World Regatta Series. Erickson describes the beautiful mountain setting, the founding and growth of the series, and the camaraderie among sailors at this unique California venue, including details about race formats and social events.
Allan Gowans announces a search for a site, host club, and willing participants for the TOUCAN DUET Regatta, a two-handed mixed gender event featuring spinnaker and non-spinnaker divisions. No site has yet been selected for this regatta.
A summary of Thistle racing results from various regattas including Inter-Lake Regatta, South Shore Regatta (Vermilion), Sandusky Regatta, Cleveland Yacht Club Regatta, and Frostbite Sweepstakes at Toledo.
John Mitchell reports on the Centerboard Regatta in Austin, Texas, where eleven Thistles competed over two days. Richard Hlista 3074 won with three bullets and strong performances from other skippers. Difficult weather conditions included a lightning storm and high winds, but the race committee managed to complete multiple races.
Fred Nagel recounts the experiences of Thistle sailors participating in the Coronado Yacht Club Small Boat Spring Regatta, highlighting surprises, close finishes, and the unexpected challenges of hosting an event that had not been held for several years.
Regatta report from the Fern Ridge Lake Memorial Day regatta in Eugene, Oregon, describing challenging weather conditions with hail, heavy winds, and dramatic weather changes during the racing.
Report from the 25th annual Winnetka Super Sail Regatta held with perfect sailing conditions and festive evening events.
Match racing bracket results for the Fourth Larry Klein Memorial Regatta showing three tiers of competition with Lettenmaier as champion.
Report on the Julep Cup Regatta held at Louisville Sailing Club in Prospect, Kentucky in October 1997. Details fleet conditions, race results showing Bright's boat winning, and Bauer taking second place.
Regatta report for the Kansas City Thistle Fleet's competitive race that featured extreme weather challenges. The report chronicles the chaos of racing in high winds and difficult conditions, including several capsized boats and dramatic race finishes.
Jett reports on the Grand Annual Regatta at Cave Run Lake in Kentucky where Louisville sailors dominated with light wind sailing. Boat 3876 (Bright) placed first, followed by competitors from Saratoga.
Dieball describes the first annual Sammy Davis Jr. Memorial Regatta held over Labor Day weekend at Put-In-Bay Yacht Club, featuring Thistles from across Ohio in three races.
Marty Schilke reports on the Second Annual Lemonade Regatta held June 5-6 at Bloomington Yacht Club on Lake Lemon in Indiana with seven out-of-town guest boats joining local boats for seven races with good sailing and Italian food.
A report on the thirty-first Glimmerglass Regatta held on Otsego Lake in Cooperstown, New York, where Eric Gesner won all five races. The article includes race results and commentary on wind conditions and competing sailors.
A report on the 20th Grand Annual Regatta of the Cave Run Sailing Association held in October at Cave Run Lake in the Daniel Boone National Forest. The article describes the event atmosphere and includes race results.
A report on the Octoberfest regatta held by the Small Boat Racing Association at Santa Cruz Yacht Club, featuring Thistle and other small boat classes. The article describes race conditions and results.
Report on the Adirondack Thistle Invitational held June 17-18 on Lake Saratoga in northern New York with almost 30 boats. E. Gesner won the regatta, with conditions varying from moderate to unpredictable. Includes anecdotes about crew attire confusion and wind conditions.
Report on the 9th annual Thoroughbred Regatta held May 13-14 on Cave Run Lake in Morehead, Kentucky with 11 sailors. Ed Spengeman won convincingly across five races, with David Bauer second and Will Lyons third. The regatta memorialized Charlie Jett with a tree and bench.
Report on the Sene-Canoe Regatta held June 10-11 on Seneca Lake in Geneva, New York with 15 Thistles. Doug Kaukeinen won the regatta, with Eric Gesner second and Doc Gates third. Features good winds, excellent hospitality, and anecdotes about sailing conditions.
Report on the 8th Annual Thoroughbred Regatta held May 8-9, 2000 at Cave Run Lake in Morehead, Kentucky, hosted by Thistle Fleet #175. A record 13 boats competed in challenging heavy air conditions Saturday (18-20 mph with gusts to 25 mph) followed by light air on Sunday. Brian Jerman won the regatta with consistent results.
A humorous account of the WerstFest regatta at Canyon Lake, Texas over Halloween weekend, where heavy rain and high winds prevented any racing by Thistles. The event turned into a social occasion with only 3 of 7 expected boats attending, zero races sailed, but celebration of German-American heritage and Werstfest festivities continued.
Report on the Make-A-Wish Thistle Regatta at Cottage Park Yacht Club in Boston, which featured 4 competing boats and raised over $20,000 for children in need. Steve Liggett won 3 of 4 races with crew Maf Terry and John Saxe. The regatta helped rejuvenate the Boston Thistle fleet after a period of inactivity.
Report on the 1999 Great Pumpkin Regatta at Birmingham Sailing Club, featuring 21 Thistles in heavy air sailing. Paul Abdullah won with consistent finishes. Multiple capsizes occurred throughout the weekend due to challenging conditions. Notable social events included a harvest moon and great group atmosphere.
Fleet 183 in Fernandina, Florida hosted its inaugural Gregor MacGregor Regatta on June 24-25 on the beautiful but tricky Cumberland Sound. Scott Griffin won the series, with brother Greg Griffin second and Loy Vaughan third. The event featured a Friday night reception and Saturday evening party at Tiger Point Marina.
Mccutcheon reports on a fall series regatta held in Ossining, NY in October with 16 Thistles competing on the Hudson River north of the Tappan Zee Bridge. Despite challenging weather including light winds and thick fog, John Baker won with Charlie Kreitler in second place.
Report on the July 2001 Gregor MacGregor Regatta held at Fernandina Beach, Florida. The event featured spectacular weather, close racing, and the unusual sight of a Trident nuclear submarine passing through Cumberland Sound. Michael Lenkeit won overall with consistent performances, with 20 boats competing.
Feature article about sailing Thistles in the Arizona desert at Lake Pleasant during the Arizona Yacht Club's Invitational regatta. Describes the unique challenges of desert sailing including shifting winds, the lake's changing water levels, competing boats, and the crew's experience racing in unfamiliar conditions while encountering wildlife and navigating the colorful landscape.
Race report from the second annual Lumberjack Regatta at Tupper Lake in the Adirondacks, August 19-20. Fourteen Thistles participated in challenging gusty and shifty conditions over five races. Eric Gesner won the regatta, Charlie Murphy finished second, and Elmer Richards placed third.
Race report from the Sint-Sinck Regatta held October 14-15 at Shattemuc Yacht Club on the Hudson River. Eighteen Thistles from five states competed in light, variable wind conditions. Chris Murphy dominated Saturday racing with three races completed, while Sunday was largely abandoned due to insufficient wind.
Report on the 2001 East Coast Fall Series regatta at Saratoga Lake, which started slowly due to calm conditions and only got underway Saturday evening. Eric Gesner won the regatta, with races using gate starts. The fleet voted to continue the gate start tradition.
Ten Thistles competed in the 2002 Desert Regatta on May 4-5 at Lake Sacajawea in southeastern Washington State, with Terry Lettenmaier winning first place, Kerry Poe second, and Dan Winchester third before heavy winds forced cancellation of Sunday races.
Report on the annual Make-A-Wish Foundation benefit regatta hosted by Cottage Park Yacht Club in Boston, Massachusetts, which raised over $40,000 with eight Thistle teams participating alongside competitors from other one-design classes.
The Wild Turkey Regatta on Lake Sinclair in Milledgeville, Georgia, hosted by Fleet 163 and Oconee Sailing and Yacht Club, drew thirteen Thistles from the Southeast. Greg Griffin and Mark Reddaway won convincingly again, continuing their success. Conditions were light and shifty, with special recognition for Sean Murphy's first bullet and Scott Griffin's birthday celebration.
A profile of Thistle Fleet 161 at Bloomington Yacht Club on Lake Lemon, Indiana, describing the fleet's history, growth, activities including the popular Lemonade Regatta, and the community-oriented approach to building membership and encouraging new sailors.
John Baker won the Oyster Roast Regatta (October 9-10) at Severn Sailing Association for the third time in four years, prevailing over a tough fleet of 30 Thistles. Lloyd Kitchin finished second and Don Stehle third. The regatta featured excellent fall conditions with 8-12 knots on Saturday and 15 knots on Sunday, traditional oyster and beer after racing, and drama in the fifth race when Baker fell out of his boat but was rescued and returned to finish fourth, securing the overall victory.
Report on the sixth annual Lumberjack Regatta held August 28-29 at Tupper Lake, New York, won by Eric Gesner (the Thistle Class Chief Measurer and current National Champions), with Sam Ingham in second and Bill Wilson in third. Notes the regatta's community involvement and unique launching and retrieval procedures.
The 5th Annual Lumberjack Regatta at Tupper Lake in the Adirondacks attracted 19 Thistles to a unique venue with no local fleet, yacht club, or race committee. Eric Gesner won with strong performances in windward-leeward courses. The event combines competitive racing with social activities including cookouts and stargazing.
Fleet 161's 2004 Lemonade Regatta was held on Lake Lemon near Bloomington, Indiana with eight boats competing. Bill and Kathleen Miller dominated the event, winning 4 of 8 races with consistent performances.
Results of the Great Pond Regatta at Cowan Lake with light to moderate winds and pleasant temperatures. Cindy Fisher's boat won with Doug Fisher and James Taylor alternating at the helm, while Team Pufff took second and Marty Schilke took third.
Lauren Berk led her team to victory at the intensive Jr. Bay Week championship regatta held at Put-In Bay, Ohio. Fifteen races across four days challenged junior sailors aged 13-18 with demanding race conditions and isolation from families and coaches.
Charlotte Bauer describes the junior team's experience competing in Lightning class boats at put-in-bay semifinals and eventually advancing to the finals in Newport Beach, California after the Detroit team could not attend.
Recipes for hot and mild salsa from winners of a contest held at Berlin Yacht Club in August. Includes both a hot garden salsa recipe and a milder cilantro salsa variation.
The Lake Michigan Districts were held July 15-16 at Winnetka Yacht Club, near Chicago. The regatta featured seven races with challenging light conditions on Saturday and strong southwest winds on Sunday. Jamie Gillian won the championship with his crew.
Race report from the Wild Turkey regatta at Lake Sinclair in Milledgeville, Georgia, where 11 boats competed in excellent September conditions. Greg Griffin dominated with four first-place finishes.
A humorous account of the Great Pumpkin regatta held in Alabama, the fourth race in the South East Fall Series. The fleet experienced some mishaps during the first race but recovered to have fun with excellent hospitality, good food, and friendly competition at Birmingham Sailing Club on Lake Logan Martin.
Quantum Sails advertisement highlighting their 2006 regatta victories and results, including first place finishes across major Thistle events and districts. Provides contact information for Quantum's Toledo, Cleveland, and San Diego locations with fall discount promotion.
Twenty-one Thistle teams from across the Northeast gathered at Tupper Lake, New York for the Eighth Annual Lumberjack Regatta, experiencing the unique charm of the Adirondacks and a one-of-a-kind "Around-the-Islands" course on Sunday. Erik Goethert and his crew won with light-to-moderate Saturday conditions contrasting with stronger Sunday winds.
Race report from the Great Pumpkin regatta at Birmingham Sailing Club on Lake Logan Martin, covering the competition and social activities of this annual Southeast Fall Series event.
Race report from the 43rd annual Bloody Mary Regatta hosted by Western Carolina Sailing Club, featuring race conditions, results, and social activities at this well-established Southeast event.
The 2007 Wet Your Thistle Regatta at Hoover Sailing Club in Westerville featured 21 boats in perfect conditions with Steve Lavender winning overall, set at a beautiful facility with numerous sponsor-provided prizes and raffle items.
Report on the Labor Day Weekend CORN (Cheney One-design Regatta at Ninnescah) held at Cheney Reservoir, Kansas, with 11 Thistles competing in light and shifty conditions. Tim Fitzgerald took first place with consistent finishes.
Dramatic report from the Wild Turkey Regatta at Lake Sinclair, Georgia, featuring 14 boats competing in light wind. Greg Griffin prevailed over his brother Scott Griffin in a close competition, winning his fifth consecutive Wild Turkey title. Includes vivid description of the dramatic final race.
Report of the ninth annual Lumberjack Regatta held on Tupper Lake in the Adirondacks, with 22 Thistle Class sloops competing. Dan Fien took first place. Includes vivid descriptions of weather conditions and sailing in the Adirondack winds.
Report from the Oyster Roast Regatta at Severn Sailing Association in Annapolis, featuring 40 Thistles. Brent Barbehenn, sailing his new all ash-trimmed #4004 named Bad Ash, won the shortened 3-race event. Conditions were beautiful with 8-12 mph winds.
Account of a Thistle sailing adventure to the Gregor McGregor Regatta in Fernandina Beach, Florida, including a multi-day camping and cruising experience on Jekyll Island and surrounding coastal waters.
Coverage of the ninth annual Lumberjack Regatta held August 25-26, 2007 on Tupper Lake in the Adirondacks, featuring 22 Thistle class sailboats from seven states. The article details challenging racing conditions, with strong winds and pounding whitecaps on Saturday making for thrilling and sometimes harrowing competition. Dan Fien of Webster, New York won the five-race series with 22 points, followed by Jim Grindling in second place with 25 points and John Baker in third with 26 points.
Thursday's northeast wind race starts light but tricky with strong current pushing boats over the line, requiring two general recalls before a clean start. Brent Barbehenn's Team Bad Rash rounds first at the windward mark but winds build dramatically to 30 knots, causing multiple boat failures including broken masts and rig damage.
A first-time Thistle sailor describes a week-long regatta in Pensacola, beginning with a dramatic road trip where a trailer tire blowout strands the crew and prompts generous assistance from fellow Thistlers. The article chronicles the week's racing events, social gatherings, local attractions, and friendly competitions including pool olympics, volleyball, and a fantasy draft.
Final standings and statistics for the 2008 East Coast Fall Series including top skipper and crew results with Cox-Sprague scoring percentages.
Report on the Mid-America Districts held June 13-14 at Windycrest Sailing Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Twelve boats competed with three new owner-driver programs from the University of Kansas Sailing Team. Intense competition on Day 2 featured multiple lead changes and a close final race won by team "Firewalker."
Ron Sherry reports on the 14th Annual Larry Klein Memorial Regatta held May 26, 2008 at Crescent Sail Yacht Club in Grosse Pointe, Michigan. The regatta featured 30 mixed-class boats and is known for its fun atmosphere and emphasis on safety, honoring the memory of Larry Klein who died in a sailing accident.
The 10th annual Lumberjack Thistle Regatta on Tupper Lake (August 23-24, 2008) attracted 14 skippers in ideal racing conditions. The event, run by volunteers including PRO Allen Faurot, featured five races with courses ranging from five miles to a full circumnavigation of nearby islands. Awards, festive activities including Friday night and Saturday evening dinners, and special maple wood medallions recognized participants. David Hansen won with his crew Anne Hansen and Scot Meyer.
Richard May reports on the October 18-19 Great Pumpkin regatta at Birmingham Sailing Club, where 34 boats competed in strong, shifty winds. Paul Abdullah took first place with Scott Griffin and Buddy Wainwright rounding out the trophy winners. The regatta featured exciting racing conditions with winds gusting to 20+ knots that resulted in one de-mast and multiple capsizes. Strong social activities included pumpkin carving, burn-your-own dinner, live music, fireworks, and a bonfire.
Compilation of regatta results from multiple districts including Michiana, Damful, SoCal, and Lake Erie championships with comprehensive scoring tables.
Final race results table for the 2010 Lumberjack Thistle Regatta, showing standings for 25 boats across 5 races with total points and best race scores. Eric Gesner took first place with 17 total points.
Elmer Richards reports on the 12th annual Lumberjack Thistle Regatta held August 28-29 at Tupper Lake, New York. Eric Gesner won with Doug Kaukeinen second and John Baker third. The regatta featured 25 boats competing in five races, including two distance races around islands. The event was well-organized with excellent food and community support.
Craig Smith reports on the Horrocks-Palmer-Alvarez Regatta at Sayville Yacht Club where eleven Thistles competed. After close racing on Saturday with Steve Gruver leading, Sunday brought a four-way tie for first place among Gruver, Jesse Gaylord, Larry Liggett, and Chris Pollak. Pollak won the final race and overall regatta with strong crew performance.
Scott Meyer describes the Kayaderosseras Kup at Saratoga Sailing Club where seventeen teams braved heavy nor'easter winds forecasted at 18-20 knots gusting to 47. Saturday featured two short-track races in 15-20 knot conditions with survival sailing and minimal clear air. Charlie Kreitler won with his big breeze speed, and Sunday's lighter 10-15 knot conditions saw close racing with Kreitler maintaining the lead.
Junior sailor Conor Ruppen recounts his experience racing at the I-LYA Junior Bay week regatta at Put-in-Bay, Ohio with almost 150 junior sailors competing. He describes the excellent racing conditions, coaching from Ernie Dieball, and his team's second-place finish. Ruppen emphasizes the camaraderie among junior competitors and the unique opportunity to race against peers.
Report on the 2011 Doldrums Regatta held at Fort Walton Yacht Club as part of the Southeastern Spring Series. The event featured four races with Team Cordero taking the title. The article explains the history of the Doldrums event and the accommodations made for Thistle competitors.
The 2015 Thistle Labor Day regatta, the Eat Moore's Crabs Regatta, was held September 5-6 at Severn Sailing Association in Annapolis. Thirteen Thistles participated with good winds. Five races were completed with Charles Krafft winning overall. The regatta is famous for its crab feast, a tradition started 45 years ago by fleet member Tom Lawton and now underwritten annually by Don Moore, giving the regatta its name.
The annual Johnson Memorial Regatta on Chautauqua Lake on October 15, 2016 featured near-perfect weather with clear skies and 10-12 mph breezes. Steve and Rachael Lavender with Sue Hamilton won overall. The event showcased the hospitality of Tom Hubbell's backyard venue and the strong community support characteristic of Thistle racing.
Report on the 19th Annual Lumberjack Regatta held on Tupper Lake, New York, August 26-27, 2017. Sixteen Thistles competed in shifty wind conditions, with Tom Lawton earning first place. The regatta was sponsored by the Rotary Club and featured challenging conditions around Bluff and Birch islands.
Alternate perspective on the Oyster Roast Regatta from Brian Kitchin's viewpoint, focusing on the competitive racing throughout the weekend and the exceptional hospitality provided by SSA.
Report on the 45th annual Great Pumpkin Regatta at Birmingham Sailing Club on October 15-16 with 33 boats. Dickey describes the pleasant sailing conditions and competition, and the traditional pumpkin bowling event held at the awards ceremony.
September 15-16 regatta at Otsego Sailing Club in Cooperstown, New York. 16 Thistles participated. Light and fluky wind conditions resulted in five races total. Tom Lawton won the event. Excellent food and camping facilities, including Mexican fiesta feast prepared by OSC volunteers.
October 13-14 at Saratoga Lake Sailing Club. 26 boats competed. Aaron Holland won with Dana Hollenbeck and Bill Dexter. Confusing wind conditions and notable incident with drifting mark. Excellent hospitality and social atmosphere.
Report from the spring Adirondack Thistle Invitational at Saratoga Sailing Club with 18 boats competing in three races under challenging, gusty conditions. Doug Kaukeinen's team dominated the competitive field in shifty winds.
Report from the Old Salty Regatta at Lake Norman Yacht Club with 20 boats from the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida. Scott and Nerissa Griffin won with the best boat handling in moderate to heavy, shifty winds on Saturday, while Sunday's lighter conditions determined the final results.
Fourteen Thistle teams competed at the MAD Regatta at Hoover Sailing Club on July 25, 2020 in challenging conditions featuring light winds, 180-degree shifts, and variable gusts. COVID-19 safety measures were strictly enforced including masks and social distancing. Adam Gilbertson and Tim Vining won first place, with five different boats winning races during the event. Family boats featured prominently, highlighting the social bonds in the class.
Atwood Yacht Club's 70th running of the Harvest Moon Regatta on September 12-13, 2020, featured warm weather and typical shifty lake breezes. Fifteen Thistles competed across five races. Jack Finefrock and crew won, with Conor Ruppen second and Mike Delaney third, in the first regatta of the Lake Erie Fall Series.
Report on the Singing River Regatta held in May 2021 at Muscle Shoals Sailing Club in Alabama. Seven Thistles competed in challenging shifty conditions. Loy Vaughan and Andrew DeRussy won after managing to connect in Sunday's races, while Tanner Schultz and team placed second.
Scott Pakenham reports on Newport Fleet 169's status with six regular sailors expanding to nine, acquisition of potential new boats including a Fox hull and a Woodie for loaner use, and upcoming events including Monday evening racing, the Newport Regatta, and the Newport Dinghy Regatta.
Marilyn Hunger describes how the Thistle Class achieved a Platinum Level Green Regatta status by implementing sustainable practices during the 75th Nationals. The article details efforts to eliminate single-use items, involve local organizations, manage waste responsibly, practice environmental stewardship, and promote green boating practices aligned with Sailors for the Sea's 20 High-Impact Goals.
Report from the Singing River Regatta held at Muscle Shoals Sailing Club in Killen, Alabama on April 9-10. The regatta was moved to early April due to Nationals scheduling, which created challenging weather conditions on Saturday but excellent racing on Sunday with steady winds. Loy Vaughan won with three bullets.
The 2019 Thistle National Champion Brad Russell made a surprise appearance at Atwood Yacht Club for the Harvest Moon Regatta. The event was highlighted by a wedding celebration for Conor Ruppen and Carrie Patterson, with Bobby Sessions taking the regatta trophy.
Duckworth announces that the Thistle Class website now allows members to post their own regatta results. The process is straightforward and includes uploading race results and featured photos.
A detailed race report on Newport's inaugural women's regatta held August 6-7 on Narragansett Bay. Nine boats participated with sailors ranging from age 12 to 60, including former Olympians and national champions. The event featured competitive racing across five races plus a unique coastal race circumnavigating Rose Island, complemented by social events designed to welcome newcomers to the class.
A humorous and detailed account of Team Bone Broke's road trip from Rochester to the Atlantic Coast Championship at Nyack Boat Club on June 25-26, 2022. The report covers Friday evening's Olympian Caleb Paine clinic on America's Cup racing, Saturday's challenging light-wind racing on the Hudson River, Sunday's thermal racing conditions, and the team's post-race dining and social adventures.
Fleet 169 announces plans for the second Newport Women's Regatta in August, with details on logistics including morning briefing, windward-leeward racing, and social events on Saturday and Sunday.
Report on the 72nd Annual Harvest Moon Regatta at Atwood Yacht Club with 13 Thistles competing. The article praises the club's hospitality including meals, accommodations, and festivities, and highlights several boats including new restorers and repurposed boats.
Report on the first Thistle regatta at Mansfield Sailing Club on Clear Fork Reservoir, organized by Carrie and Conor Ruppen. Describes the venue near Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course and gusty conditions that capsized four boats during the event.
Humorous race report from the Wild Turkey Regatta at Savannah Yacht Club where the author, disappointed by low registration, notes the competitive depth with three Nationals champions. Greg Griffin dominates the regatta despite the author's attempts to slow down the top finishers.
Report of the Glimmerglass Regatta held at Otsego Lake featuring light and shifty wind conditions, noteworthy team performances by Gesner and Wilson, and appreciation for the Otsego Sailing Club volunteers.
Regatta report from Saratoga Lake Sailing Club featuring unpredictable weather, an engagement announcement, community spirit, and the unique Thistle culture of enjoying sailing regardless of race results.
Comprehensive list of Thistle Class regattas certified as Clean Regattas in 2022, organized by level of certification (National, Regional, District, and individual races) and featuring the champions responsible for implementation.
Fleet #169 hosted its second annual Women's Regatta on August 12-13 in Narragansett Bay with six boats competing in 6 buoy races and one coastal race. Nicole Shedden's team won with 15 points, followed by Christine Shope's team, with excellent racing and strong socialization throughout the weekend.
Bill and Erin Kitchens sailed their Thistle against 12 offshore racers in a pursuit race at Fishing Bay Yacht Club, finishing 4th despite being the only small dinghy competing. The article highlights the Thistle's shallow draft and tactical advantages against larger PHRF-rated boats.
Amina Brown reports on the Newport Women's Thistle Regatta hosted by Fleet #169, which continues to be a highlight of the summer sailing schedule. The regatta featured five races on Saturday and a coastal race on Sunday, with strong hospitality including Friday night check-in, daily breakfasts, and a cookout. Meg Myles' Ghost won the regatta.
The 1st VP previews the 2024 racing season, noting the early major regattas including Mid-Winters West and East, and highlights the excitement around the 2024 Nationals in Toms River. He also shares a historical tip from Sandy Douglass dating back to the 1948 Bagpipe.
Report on the Thistle Adirondack Invitational at Saratoga Lake Sailing Club, June 21-22. The regatta was noted more for the food and camaraderie than optimal racing conditions. 17 boats participated with Dan Hesse winning the regatta.
The Glimmerglass Regatta at Otsego Sailing Club, September 14-15, 2024, defied a forecast of light and variable winds. Despite an early morning when sailors were tempted to play disc golf, seven Thistles enjoyed eight races with excellent conditions. Bill and Carol Wilson dominated the regatta by combining speed with luck.
Complete results from the 2024 Oyster Roast Regatta with 16 teams competing over 7 races. Brent Barbehenn, Adam Gesner, and Ben Yannelli won with 12 points. Jon Duffett, Chris Murphy, and Arden Murphy finished second with 16 points. The regatta included results across seven races and various race management features.
The Thistle Class will trial Vakaros RaceSense digital race management at the 2025 Nationals. The system provides automated OCS notifications and synchronized timers to improve race efficiency and reduce general recalls. Each Thistle requires either an Atlas 2 or Atlas Edge digital compass. Rental units are available for $105, with purchase discounts offered to registered sailors. The article includes comprehensive FAQs about system functionality, mounting, compliance, and practice start opportunities scheduled for Sunday before racing begins.
Report on the 2025 Cedar Point Thistle Regatta held September 27-28 at Westport, Connecticut, where 12 boats competed in brisk fall breezes. Scott and Lauren Meyer with Kelly Chang aboard Just Married #3811 won with consistent sailing, followed by Jared Ridder's Safety First and Brian Joyce's Ghost Pepper. The regatta featured tight racing, good humor, and excellent race committee work.
Report on the North Cape Blowout Regatta held at La Salle, Michigan, with 11 boats competing in mild fall conditions with light to moderate winds. Kyle Finefrock with Cole Finefrock and Mike Lovett won the event, defeating Bobby Sessions and Jack Finefrock. The regatta featured traditional North Cape homemade soups, turkey sandwiches, and famous Painkillers.
Detailed report of the 2025 SSA Oyster Roast regatta in Annapolis, describing racing conditions, winner Jon Duffett's team, and appreciation for race committee and host club. Includes complete race results table.