Wonderful weather over the weekend 13 – 15th July welcomed 35 Topper sailors to Courtown Sailing Club, Co. Wexford for the 3rd Topper Traveller Championship of the season. These events, which are organised by the Topper Association of Ireland (http://www.irltopper.com) are completed in one day. The start time accommodates those travelling to and from the venue. A light sea breeze on Sunday permitted three races to be sailed back to back with little or no delay. Junior Royal Cork sailor Adam D’Arcy finished 3rd U17.
The Topper Association also provide open coaching in conjunction with traveller events. An open coaching day last Saturday included race practice with the ISA Topper squad.
The previous week the Topper Nationals was held in Donaghadee. This was a three day event, with 66 sailors participating from all over Ireland and Great Britain. Competitors included the Irish Sailing Association junior squad and 12 of the British RYA junior squad. The waters around Donaghadee provided challenging tidal conditions for the visitors. Light winds on Friday only allowed two races. However, stronger winds on Saturday granted the Race Officer, Ruan O’Tiarnaigh, near perfect conditions to run 4 races back to back. Sunday was a beautiful day despite a brief appearance of a sea mist but very light winds prevented racing. Eoghan O’Regan and Adam D’Arcy represented the Royal Cork, gaining invaluable racing experience at National level.
At club level the Topper sailors participate in mixed dinghy racing and are coached by Patrick Crosbie who came 3rd in the Topper Worlds in 2011. The Topper is proving its reputation as an excellent transition boat. Though the controls are very similar to a Laser, the hull shape and mast position make it more manageable for the lighter or younger sailor. If any junior sailor wishes to try a Topper please contact Celine McGrath at 087 7691693
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