Topper Book

Dave Cockerill held the role of RYA Topper UK Head Coach for 14 years. He was instrumental in introducing the centre mainsheet and 4.2 sail to the class.John Caig is a former Topper National & European Champion. He twice won the Fireball World Championship and has been a member of the British Olympic Sailing team. He is also author of Fernhurst Books’ Racing: A Beginner’s Manual.

• Foreword; Introduction; PART ONE: GETTING STARTED: Rigging The Boat, The Different Rigs, Sailing Theory, Reefing, Launching, A First Sail, Reaching, Beating, Tacking, Running, Gybing, Capsizing, Landing, Having Fun In Your Topper; PART TWO: RACING: THE BASICS: Introduction & Rules, The Start, Around The Race Course; PART THREE: MASTERCLASSES: Preparing Yourself For Success, Preparing Your Boat For Success, Boatspeed & Boat Handling For Success, Tactics & Strategy For Success, Preparing For An Event, Dave Cockerill’s Guide For Parents; PART FOUR: TECHNICAL MATTERS: Rigging The Toestraps, Fitting Out A Race-Spec Boom, Rope Kits, Sail Numbers & Telltales, Topper Care & Maintenance, The International Topper Class Association

“Having had the pleasure to coach with Dave, I can’t think of anyone more experienced, knowledgeable and passionate about Topper sailing. Dave has inspired generations of Topper sailors over the years and with this book will continue to do so.” (Helena Lucas MBE, Paralympic Gold & Bronze Medallist)