Belgian yachting publisher, Charles Bertels dies

by Véronique Hachez on 31 Aug 2011
Charles Bertels, founder of Belgian magazine Yachting Sud, died on August 18. He was a jovial and modest man, fond of good beer and bad puns.

Behind his congenial nature and his unassuming manners, he proved over forty years to be the most influential person in Belgian sailing. He had been active in the early development of the Europe Class, at the same time instilling a new spirit in cruising-racing with the University of Louvain Yacht Club. He then helped establish the Laser dinghy in Belgium, before involving himself in the Micro Cupper Class for twenty years.

Meanwhile he created the Spirou Class, and a travelling championship for kids. He eventually imported the Flying Fifteen class in Belgium. He never was a first class sailor, but enjoyed being on the water more and better than most. The small magazine he created 32 years ago was, like him, free from influence and authority. Charles Bertels spoke his mind and acted accordingly.