Some say Table Topics is the most challenging of all Toastmasters’ speech contests. They may be correct. With no preparation, contestants are given a speech topic as they approach the podium. The contestant must then deliver a two-minute speech on that topic, ideally with a clear beginning, body and conclusion. Not for the faint-hearted, many would say, but like everything, Toastmasters is the place to learn to think — and speak! — on your feet.
Here is a list of the District 71 Table Topics Contest winners.
| Year | Contest winner | Club |
| 2016 | Paula Kelleher | Guardian Toastmasters, Cork |
| 2015 | Patrick Sexton | Speakeasy, Cork |
| 2014 | Elizabeth Toohig | Thame Speakers |
| 2013 | David T. Jones | Holborn Speakers |
| 2012 | David T. Jones | Excalibur Speakers |
| 2011 | James McGinty | Chelmsford Speakers |
| 2010 | David T. Jones | Excalibur Speakers |
| 2009 | Kevin Walsh | Fermoy Toastmasters Club |
| 2008 | David T. Jones | London Olympians |
| 2007 | John Kelly | Thurles Toastmasters Club |
| 2006 | Patrick Sexton | Speakeasy, Cork |
| 2005 | Sheila Merriman | North Norfolk Speakers |
| 2004 | David T. Jones | London Olympians |
| 2003 | Paul Carroll | London Athenians |
| 2002 | Bill Russell | London Corinthians |
| 2001 | Bob Harvey | Bromley Speakers |
| 2000 | Alan Warner | London Corinthians |
| 1999 | Bill Russell | London Corinthians |
| 1998 | John Cronin | Lucan Club |
| 1997 | Helen Heneghan | Society Speakers |
| 1996 | Patrick Sexton | Speakeasy, Cork |
| 1995 | William Horwood | Oxford Speakers |
