The International Topper Class Association (World) is the parent organisation of all the national Topper Class associations around the world and organises the annual World Championships and other international events. Its role is to promote International Topper sailing with fun, fair and competitive racing in the perfect dinghy for junior, youth and light adult sailors.
With three rig options, the standard 5.3m2 sail and smaller 4.2m2 sail both use the same hull and spars, whilst the new 6.4m2 rig just requires a longer top mast and allows an optional shorter boom and epoxy fibreglass rudder blade. This makes the Topper 4.2 the ideal introduction to racing for smaller, lightweight sailors from 7-9 years and 35kg, whilst the 5.3 sailors commonly range from 47-56kg. Both classes have their own world Championships, held alongside each other and endorsed by World Sailing, making it easy for families with siblings across both fleets to attend. The new 6.4 rig now caters for 65-85kg sailors who wish to stay in the friendly Topper fleet, as well as those returning to the class.
In turn, the Topper 5.3 class has proved time and time again to be the perfect pathway boat for further progression into the Laser 4.2, Laser Radial, Laser or 29er. The Class is responsible for developing some of the best young sailors in the world. There are many successful Topper alumni who have gone on to win Olympic medals, compete in the Volvo Ocean Race and sail in the America's Cup.
Known around the world as the 'Friendly Class', the Class not only produces exceptional sailing talent, it also helps sailors acquire key life skills including independence, confidence, team work and physical fitness - helping them fulfil their true potential.
The Topper is recognised by World Sailing as an international class and is an RYA Junior Pathway Class
The Topper Worlds 2025 will take place on the IJsselmeer, The Netherlands, hosted by the Regatta Center Medemblik, with race management by the RYC Hollandia, from 19th-25th July 2025.
Further information is available on the event page.
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ITCA (World) organises the major International Topper championships, primarily the annual World Championships at iconic venues around the globe as well as regional events, such as the Asian/Pacific Championships.
In recent years the World Championships has been hosted by world-renowned regatta venues such as Mar Menor, - Spain, Medemblik - The Netherlands, Longcheer - China, Lochtudy - France, Ballyholme - N. Ireland, Riva del Garda - Italy and Pwllheli - North Wales.
Turn the Tide on plastic - what does it mean and what can we all do about it?
Many sailors around the world are taking a lead in highlighting the huge problem of plastics in our oceans, rivers, harbours and beaches. It matters more to youth sailors, as it is your future at stake. Youngsters can lead the way, and show the older generation that they need to change their habits and not pollute our waters with micro plastics, killing the organisms that create our oxygen and currents that control our climate. If we don’t act now there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish. Plastic is everywhere in the ocean...it is so dense in places it even replaces plankton as a primary food source for all sorts of marine animals - from the smallest zooplankton right up to the biggest whale, this means it is getting into the marine food chain and also ending up on our dinner plate!
There are over 50,000 Toppers spread around the world, find your local fleet and join in the fun and friendly competition now!
There are opportunities for young sailors from World Sailing's designated Emerging Nations Programme to be provided with a free charter boat for the Topper World Championships, making the event accessible to anyone around the globe. Boats are usually available on a limited first-comers basis, so get in touch with the Secretary General if you wish to apply for a place for next year's Championships.
Want to start your own national Topper Class association? ITCA World can provide all the necessary guidance, a draft constitution and hosting agreements if your venue wishes to bid to host an international championship.