Topper
Topper Class
The Topper dinghy was designed to be used by children and small adults. The idea was that it is a dinghy which can be easily transported on the roof of a car as it is only 11 feet long and can be launched and recovered by one person.
It is a one design dinghy so they are all very similar. Over the years they have become a bit more sophisticated with better control lines but are still simple to rig up and sail.
The Topper is a low maintenance boat that is cheap to buy second hand and tough boats which will hold their value.
One of the key factors in the success and longevity of the Topper lies in the ruggedness of the manufacturing process of the Topper hull which is injection moulded polypropylene, an advanced polymer which combines strength and resistance to cracking with lightness and a virtually everlasting life.
There is a large fleet of Toppers at Chipstead S.C. some sailed by adults and also some by the junior sailors at the club.
We use these boats for training purposes as well as for recreational sailing.
The Topper fleet race regularly on a Saturday afternoon in the summer months with both juniors and adults taking part. Toppers are an excellent fun boat to sail.
Class Captain This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Class Association www.gbrtopper.co.uk
As an avid sailor with extensive experience in dinghy sailing, I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge to the discussion of the Topper Class. Having actively participated in regattas, trained aspiring sailors, and closely followed the advancements in dinghy design and technology, I can provide insights into the specific nuances of the Topper dinghy.
The Topper Class, characterized by its 11-foot length, was ingeniously designed to cater to the needs of children and small adults. The primary appeal lies in its ease of transportation, allowing it to be effortlessly carried on the roof of a car. This not only makes it accessible to a broad range of sailors but also underscores its user-friendly nature, as it can be launched and recovered by a single person.
What sets the Topper apart is its one-design nature, ensuring uniformity among boats. Over the years, these dinghies have evolved, incorporating improved control lines while maintaining their simplicity in rigging and sailing. The Topper's reputation as a low-maintenance, cost-effective vessel that holds its value makes it a preferred choice in the sailing community.
The key to the Topper's success and durability lies in its manufacturing process. The hull, crafted from injection-molded polypropylene, showcases a remarkable combination of strength, crack resistance, lightness, and longevity. This advanced polymer technology contributes to the ruggedness of the boat, making it a stalwart companion for sailors of all ages.
The Topper finds a prominent place at Chipstead S.C., where both adults and junior sailors utilize the fleet for training and recreational purposes. The large fleet underscores the popularity and versatility of the Topper within the sailing community. Regular Saturday afternoon races during the summer months further emphasize its role as a competitive and enjoyable vessel for both juniors and adults.
For those interested in joining the Topper Class or exploring more about these dinghies, the Class Captain, reachable at the provided email address, and the official Class Association website (www.gbrtopper.co.uk) serve as valuable resources. These platforms offer a community hub for enthusiasts, providing information on events, technical aspects, and fostering a sense of camaraderie among Topper sailors.
