About the TCA
The Thistle is a high performance one design racing sailboat that is generally sailed with a three person crew. The Thistle Class Association is recognized as one of the largest and best one-design classes in the country.
Thistle fleets are located throughout the US and welcome new and experienced sailors. Fleet members are happy to take new Thistle sailors out sailing and help get new boat owners up to speed. Joining a fleet and crewing is an excellent way to get started in the Thistle. Instructional DVD’s also help sailors get up to speed.
The TCA publishes a top-notch magazine, the Bagpipe, which not only reports on all the class news, but often includes rigging and go-fast tips.
The class culture makes this Thistle unique. The competitive design and caliber of sailors attracts top sailors. The class also enjoys family camaraderie and often teams are comprised of family members. The Thistle is ideal for junior sailors and many regattas encourage youth participation with reduced fees for junior members.
Designed by Sandy Douglas, the Thistle debuted in 1945. The sail plan consists of a main, jib, and spinnaker. The boat planes easily in 10-12 knots of breeze yet will also glide effortlessly in light air. The class firmly believes in the one-design principals thus keeping all boats competitive.
New boats are available from the class approved builders, Great Midwest Yacht and North West One Design. Used boats can be found at a variety of price points. The best places to find used boats include the "Classifieds" page on this site and to network with your local sailing club.
LOA 17' 0"
Beam 6' 0"
Draft up/dn 6"/4’6"
Weight 515 lb
SA (main and jib) 191 sq. ft.
SA (spin) 220 sq. ft.
The Thistle Class Association
is a proud member of
US SAILING.
Welcome to the Thistle Class Association
NEWS
- The Nationals Page is up and running. Information will be added periodically to this page so visit it often to get the scoop on this great event!
- The 2008 National Championship Notice of Race is posted.
- The web page header photograph section needs more photographs. Please send one or two of your very best photographs which fit the following categories: People (pictures of minors must include parental permission), rigging, scenic sailing venues. Pictures will be chosen based upon quality and how well they represent the TCA. (age, gender, geographic location, fun factor, etc.) And, seriously, edit your collection to your one or two favorites.
- Remember to submit NOR's, event information, and regatta results to the webmaster, Mary Amburgey. All information will be posted on the events page.
- The Skipper Eligibility List is current as of May 8, 2008. The list includes 2008 junior, active, and family member’s last names and boat registration information. If you have not paid your 2008 dues, you are invited to do so. If you need to register your boat with the class, the measurement form is available online.
- Don’t miss any Bagpipes! The April/May was your last issue if you are not 2008 dues paid.
- Bagpipe Preview - April/May 2008.
- Fleet Web Pages: Make it easy for sailors to find your fleet. Check your fleet link and contact information on the Officers page.
- Check the SPYC website for MWE scores and the Kattack GPS tracking system.
- Thistle Class Merchandise makes great gifts and trophies. Keep checking back as more items are added.
For upcoming events and regatta results please go to 2008 Events.
