This Antwerp-born Belgian is a versatile sportsman and brilliant racing driver. Between 1903 and 1908 he achieved a large number of victories in Mercedes at international events, including the Ostend Week in 1904, 1907, 1908 and 1914. In addition, he set a world record in the Belgian seaside resort's kilometre race in 1904. From 1908 onwards, he devoted himself primarily to flying.