This weekend our minds were blown when we saw the video of Zoltan Torkos doing a kickflip on a surfboard (above). We got a chance to ask Zoltan "The Magician" a few questions to get more insight into one of the craziest things we've ever seen in the water.
TACO: How long did it take from the conception of a surfboard kickflip to pulling it off?
ZOLTAN: I started trying the kickflip as soon as Volcom put out the call for the contest. I tried a few in the previous years and came close, but didn't try it too seriously. Casey Panuto, a local rock star and my good buddy filmed me day after day and caught the two kickflips to layback a few months back that started the hoopla for this kickflip. Thank you Casey.
Where did you grow up? When did you first get in the water and what is/was your inspiration?
I grew up in Santa Cruz, CA. I first started surfing in Junior High. I was inspired by Carl Reimer, my little brother, Casey "Party Time" Panudy my partner in crime, and Rigo Torkos (my older brother) who caught the kickflip on film and who never ever let me think I was too cool. And of course my wife and baby for keeping me on it. Also, I have got a lot of support from EX Drinks, Surf Co. Hawaii, Waterboony Hats, and Vernor Surfboards because they believed in me as a professional surfer.
What's your favorite taco?
La Hacienda has by far the best Mexican food in SC.
Your nickname is "The Magician" what other magic tricks are you working on?
Heel flip just too keep it creative, the options are endless. I would like to be the one to make up the next contest-- I have some ideas of tricks for the whole surfing world to try for.
You're a skater too, do you have a favorite between surfing and skating?
For me they are the same. I love them both.
Did you end up winning the Volcom $10k prize? Are you going to be able to surf full time or are you keeping your day job?
I haven't heard from Volcom yet but Fuel TV/Grind TV and Lost Enterprises claimed I won contest, so I am just waiting and praying because I need it so bad for my buddy Carl-- on his last day on earth he told me I should be the first one on earth to do this trick because I nearly rode one out in front of him that day. So far it's working out, and I hope that my surfing career keeps building...
Thank you Zoltan! We're huge fans and wish you the best.
