Eight Bells: André Callot 

On October 28th, our dear friend André Callot set sail on his final journey. André was part of the heart and soul of the Belgian Snipe Class for more than half a century. He began his sailing career in the Europe dinghy before joining the Snipe fleet in the seventies: a time when the class was at its strongest in Belgium, both in numbers and in talent. Galgenweel Lake in Antwerp quickly became the place to be for Snipe sailing, and André was at the center of it all.

He was more than just a competitor; he was a warm, generous ambassador of the class. Always ready to welcome newcomers, André introduced countless young sailors to the Snipe by inviting them to crew for him or by lending them his own boat. His enthusiasm was contagious, his encouragement sincere.

When interest in the class declined in the eighties, André refused to give up. Through hard work, determination and a deep love for the Snipe, he kept the Belgian Snipe Class alive. His efforts helped pave the way for a new generation of sailors, including Ben Van Cauwenbergh, who would go on to play a major role nationally and internationally. André’s wise counsel and calm, balanced opinion remained a steady presence in the class for decades.

His dedication and passion were recognized far beyond our Belgian borders. When André was inducted into the SCIRA Hall of Fame, it was a moment of pride for everyone who had sailed with him or been inspired by him.

André competed in many international regattas across Europe. True to the spirit of the Snipe, he embodied “Serious Sailing, Serious Fun” — always ready for good racing, a good laugh and, of course, a good drink with friends. His beloved wife Ferry supported him through it all, with love and a patient smile.

Even in recent years, André continued to follow the class closely, cheering on Belgian sailors and celebrating their results. His presence: at the water, at events, and in our conversations, was constant.

He will be dearly missed and his legacy will stay with us: in every boat rigged on Galgenweel, in every young sailor finding their place in the fleet, and in every race that carries the spirit he helped build. A few years ago, André donated the Callot Cup to the class, awarded annually to someone who makes an outstanding contribution to Snipe sailing in Belgium. We will continue this tradition with pride, and with André in our hearts.

Fair winds, André. Thank you for everything.

By Herman Vandormael and Charlotte Martot

Hall of Fame – André Callot

14 Questions to … André Callot