Thistle Fleet 21 News

Paul Kreitler

2010 is here and the 2009 sailing season is only a memory. But before those fond memories are too stale in our minds, I want to take a glimpse in the rearview mirror.

2009 was our second season with the Thistle Day format and the first season we scored the Days as a series. The Thistle Day Series 2009 consisted of 8 days of sailing with 18 races. We had 11 fleet members compete with 9 guests joining us on various days. Of those 11 competing fleet members, 6 qualified for the series by participating in at least half the sailing days. Three participants, Holzaepfel, Bartz, and Kreitler were on the water for 7 of the 8 days. Dick Harmon and Evan Rodgers were out for 6 out of 8. Bob France rounded out the group of qualifiers with 5 days. Hess, Savage, Isern, and Krause were out there for 3 days, which was just one day short of qualifying.

A huge congratulations to Kit Holzaepfel and Noel Thurber who dominated the series in first place. Final results for the Thistle Day Series 2009 were as follows:

1. Holzaepfel
2. Bartz
3. France
4. Kreitler
5. Harmon
6. Rodgers

The whole series was a blast from April through November. The series began with a great coaching session led by Skip Dieball followed by 3 races in chilly, windy conditions. We then had the two days of Damfull, beautiful days in June, July, August, and September. And, we finished it off with a great chili dinner on November 1st. This last day stands out as an example of what a great fleet this is. We had 9 boats on the starting line for two great races in beautiful conditions. There were numerous one-on-one boat battles all over the race course. The starts were tight and the finishes required a photographer. Following racing, the food was fabulous. There were 6 different chilli’s to sample, and each one brought out a wonderful variation on the dish. Complementing the chili was moist corn bread, fresh salads, and a dessert table to challenge any diet. The whole last day was the reason we have Thistle Days. A reason to focus everyone’s attention on one boat for one day and make that day great. Thanks to each and every fleet member. You all made it wonderful.

Here’s looking forward to the Thistle Day Series 2010. Let’s get more than 10 boats on the starting line and get at least 8 fleet members qualifying at the end of the season.I look forward to seeing you on the water and on the deck.