Sorry to be a bit confrontational but I dont see going solo at 16 to be particulary special. He is just lucky enough to have well off parents.
Have you ever soloed? How about soloed on your 16th birthday? I can certainly tell you it's something special, in fact one of the most special days of my life so far.
Well done Chris I say - I did the day solo on my 16th (not overly keen on doing night in a SE!) and you should be damned proud of yourself. Don't be put off by idiots - you find them everywhere - even on web bulletin boards!
tKF