Soling and Yngling designer, Jan Linge, passed away on Monday 26 June 2007, aged 85.

On behalf of the International Soling Association and Soling sailors and friends from all over the world Johan Offermans – President of the International Soling Association – pays tribute.

“With Jan, the Soling Class died a bit too. When he designed the Soling over 30 years ago, he could not have foreseen the bright future of his child.

“I remember Jan giving a speech at the closing ceremony of the 1999 Europeans in Norway. The room was full of sailors who listened to him like a child listens to its father. Jan explained that of all the boats he designed and build the Soling was his favourite. In his own unique words he told the sailors that since the Soling was his favourite child, the people loving and sailing it were his favourite grandchildren. Like all sailors who were there, I was deeply touched by his devotion and love.

“Jan has been of great value for the sport of sailing all over the world. Not only did he have two of his designs sailing at the Olympic Games, he has given so many the joy of just being on the water. Sailing itself has changed because of Jan Linge and that is an achievement only few have reached.

“I will remember him as a passionate sailor and designer, who has not only given me the joy of sailing the Soling, but so many others as well. His contribution to the Soling class and the ISA Committee is beyond recognition

He will be missed.”