What do we do?
The German class association (DTK) is organizing regattas, trainings & events and is providing help around all aspects of Topcat sailing. We are keen to organize trainings for newbies as well as those that are eager to learn more in all five regions as well as the starter days where experienced helmsmen will teach you how to fly on two hulls.Which are the boats we're sailing?
The Topcat classes (K1, K2, K3) represented by the ITCA are One Design classes where all boats are being built based on the same blueprint and very tight regulations. The sail's face, measurements, weight, material and production process are regulated to a very high degree and can not be deviated from. All the rules are documented in the strict measurement guide. With that all boats competing during regattas are almost identical, there are hardly any disadvantages or advantages based on the quality of the material - battles of material just do not apply. The disadvantage there: You can not blame the material for a bad result either ;)Who's doing what?
Well, almost everyone does everything. Every sailor is happy to answer your questions and ready to help you with tips & tricks. To specifically point you in the right direction the DTK has appointed a number of umpires.In the various regions (north, west, east, south-west and south)there are a number of experienced sailors with a lot of domain expertise that are available to assist you via email, phone, the forum or personally. Together with the board they are collecting regattas and events and help making sure there is minimal overlap between the different dates. They are keeping ITCA.de up to date, keep you informed about your region and might even call you directly to motivate you to show up at the next race. The umpires are our meat on the bones of every regatta and have grown many starter fields by their sheer presence and engagement.
And what does the board do? Well, exactly this here for example. They have an eye into every region, are organizing trainings, are constantly exploring potential new spots and try to cultivate them Topcat style.
Everybody involved is happy to receive feedback, so make sure you let it flow freely. Every now and then a word of apraisal is appreciated, too, as all work here is done voluntarily, so your feedback is our payment.
Why should I become a member?
If you think our work deserves support. This is about the sole reason but also the most honest...and having your own boat is not a prerequisite!The incumbment of the DTK, the ITCA, is issuing an annual almanac which is sentdto every member. It contains a series of reports, call for votes, news as well as your name if you have participated in a Topcat regatta. There are a number of nice pictures that were taken throughout the season and you will certainly find one story or another that'll make you smirk.
If you want to participate in a championship you have to be a member as defined in our rules. Further to that many clubs are asking for a association membership if you want to participate in their regattas.
The membership fees are used to pay for the almanac as well as the support of events and races like regatta buoys, safety boats and other service items: no fees - no service. We think that the 30? per year (8? for family members, 10? for those younger then 18 and sponsorships available for young crews participating in races) are money well spent as it does support all sailors of the class well.
Should you decide to become a member please download the form here!
