In life, if you are lucky, you will meet a person who changes your life; someone who takes you under their wing and helps you to be a better person; someone who makes a difference. Today we lost one of those people, today we lost Hans Fogh. My condolences and thoughts are with his family as they mourn his passing.
Hans touched the lives of many people, sailors and non-sailors alike, all over the world. His sailing career was impressive with many Olympic appearances that included winning a silver and bronze medal; America’s Cup; World championships wins in Flying Dutchman, Soling, Etchels and many local championship wins in a variety of classes. I was fortunate enough to have raced with Hans in Solings, Stars, as well as on my 8 Metre. I was also fortunate to have worked for Hans for many years where I learned many things about myself, things that Hans could see and helped me to realize. “Do it right, and do it right away.” was what Hans would say. “There are no such things as problems, only solutions” was another saying of his. Those of us who called him friend also know many of his “Hansisms” for which he was famous. Many of us would try to immatate him and in our best Danish accent, “Once you have boats speed you have nothing to worry about!” is always the first one that comes to mind.
I will remember Hans as a person who made a difference in this world; he made a difference in my life and I will be forever greatful for what he taught me and the opportunities he gave me.
Fair winds and slack tides Hans. Rest in Peace.
-John Mitchele
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