Josef SABOVCIK

Jozef Sabovčík started to skate at the age of six. Known for his jumping ability, Sabovčík quickly earned himself the nickname “Jumping Joe.” At the 1986 European Championships, Sabovčík became the first skater to land a quad toe loop. It was approved at the time as the first quad in competition but a few weeks later ruled invalid because of a touchdown with his free foot. At the 1988 World Championships, Kurt Browning of Canada landed the first quad toe loop which has remained ratified. During his career, Sabovčík won an Olympic bronze in 1984, was the European champion in 1985 and 1986 and took silver at the 1983 European Championships. He also competed at eight World Championships, but never medaled, his best place being fourth in 1984 and 1985. Sabovčík also won Skate America and Skate Canada in 1986 and was a six-time Czechoslovakian champion (1979-84). A knee injury sustained during the 1986 World Championships put an end to his amateur career, but he later returned to skate professionally and performs through 2013.