Pierluca Tocco

Pierluca Tocco - 'QUAD MAPE' extraordinaire

Rising through the ranks in Italy, Pierluca is fast becoming one of the most talked about skaters on the European circuit. His amazing ability to perform all the triple jumps with ease first pushed him to the forefront, now its the big jumps like the triple axel and quad mape that are cementing him as one of the biggest 'skaters to watch' of the future. Yet to compete at a world meet, Pierluca is certainly yet to make his mark.

Above: Pierluca performs one of many attempts at his QUAD MAPE (ToeLoop)

I caught up with Pierluca today and had a quick chat to him about this clip... Here's what he had to say...

How long have you been trying the Quad?

PL: I have been working on this jump for around two years now.. Yeh, two years.

When was the first time you landed it, or close to it?

PL: In February 2006.

Wow, last year! It's taken us long enough to find out!! How did it feel?

PL: Awesome.

So have you landed one perfectly?

PL: Yes, but nobody has caught one on film yet, sadly!

Damn, what a shame. So when was this clip taken?

PL: This clip is from March 2006.

Wow, it must be so much better now! I cant wait to see more clips.. Will you attempt this jump in a competition in 2007?

PL: I don't know to be honest. I have to choose between the quad, and triple axel.

Oh, the joy of such decisions!! Well, you could be of the first to land a quad in competition!..

PL: Yes, perhaps, but I have to make the right decision.

Above: Pierluca demonstrates his TRIPLE AXEL..

Do you rely on the strength in your legs for this jump, or would you say it is all timing?

PL: I would say it is the strength. It takes a lot of power for sure.

Interesting..

PL: The secret is... to feel like you are doing a fast spin on ice.. You know, to spin very quickly in a blur.

I am sure many will easily recognize with that pointer for sure.. thanks for sharing, that's a great insight into the mind of a Quad jump.. after all, its not everyday we get to chat to someone on roller who does one!

Below: Pierluca on the podium with Carles Gassett & Roberto Riva

Below: Pierluca with good buddies Andrea Aracau & me!! chillin in Murcia, Spain 2006

Special thanks to Pierluca for chatting with us... and for sharing his video - you have to agree.. its amazing!