Icom UK – “Official Radio Communications Supplier” to the International Topper Class Association (GBR) (ITCA)
Icom UK are proud to have been selected as the “Official Radio Communications Supplier” to the International Topper Class Association (GBR). Icom UK have supplied the safety fleet and on shore organisers with IC-M33 Buoyant VHF Marine Transceivers. The Association, dedicated to one of Britain’s favourite sailboats, has around 700 active members of all ages. The ITCA work closely with the RYA to deliver one of the world’s most extensive under-16 race training programmes, and also hosts the Topper National Series. Many of the ITCA’s sailors progress from the Topper Class into Olympic, International and National Classes, and the Class is well represented in the Olympic Development Squads. The radios have already seen action at the Magic Marine Winter Regatta. It was held in February at the Weymouth & Portland Sailing Academy. 118 sailors entered the 3 race event with Felicity Foulds from the Norfolk Broad Yacht Club winning, 2nd place was taken by Andrew Bridgman of the Blithfield Sailing Club, and 3rd place by Alexander Alcock of the Hunts Sailing Club. Bill Brassington, Vice-Chairman of Racing said, “Once you start to use radio communications you realise how essential they are. The Class has a large number of Icom radios which are used heavily throughout the year. We are one of the few classes that operates an on-the-water medic team and radio communication is of paramount important to them to ensure that they can get to a reported casualty as quickly as possible.” Ian Lockyer, Marketing Manager of Icom UK Ltd commented, “We are delighted to be involved with such a prominent feeder for sailing’s youth programme. It is pleasing to know that the radios will be used to assist the organisers in the management of each event, and help to ensure the safety of the competitors.” Icom UK Marketing - marketing@icomuk.co.uk17/03/2009