At the age of six, Julien Wanders began running. From the outset he says he felt a connection with the sport, «I am addicted to running and the freedom it confers. The more I run, the more I want to run.» His goal is simple: «I want to be the fastest marathon runner on the planet.»
 

Although Julien is an excellent runner, excelling in 5000m, 10000m and half marathons, he remains determined to become the finest marathon runner of his generation. Part of the runner’s prize-winning formula relates to his pace, covering the ground at a staggering speed of 24 km/h. In 2019, he became a pacemaker, or ‘rabbit’, helping legendary marathon runner, Eluid Kipchoge fulfil his goal of running 42.195Km in less than 2 hours. The current world record holder completed the task in one hour 59 minutes and 40 seconds in Vienna, Austria (October 2019).
 

In terms of Julien’s achievements, in February 2019, he set a new European record for the half-marathon, breaking the record previously held by multiple medal-winner, Sir Mo Farah. Julien’s time was 59 minutes and 13 seconds. Furthermore, in January 2020, Julien competed in the Valencia 10K Ibercaja and set a new European record for event, completing the distance in 27.13 minutes. To achieve such success, Julien continues to do everything he can to hone his talents, eager to realise his goals. Julien’s focus is clear, «my next challenge is to prepare for the Olympics. I am striving to achieve better times in the 5000m and 10,000m events.»
 

Stéphane Waser, Managing Director of Maurice Lacroix stated, «We invited Julien to join the ML Crew because he demonstrates incredible determination, refining each element of his life in order to maximise performance. He has already achieved much and his ambition shows no signs of waning. Each day he explores the limits of human performance, eager to achieve greatness. He plans to compete in marathons and lead from the front. We are pleased to join him on his journey to success.» Julien commented: «I am happy to enter into this collaboration. The watches are stylish and accessible while the brand’s vision appeals to me. When training, time is ever present. I am delighted to experience these moments with a Maurice Lacroix watch on my wrist!»

(Images © Maurice Lacroix)