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What is the significance of a triple axel in figure skating and who has mastered it?

Alwilda Kneebone

As a self-proclaimed figure skating enthusiast and avid social media user, let me tell you – the triple axel is no ordinary jump. It's the Beyoncé of figure skating, the cherry on top, the pièce de résistance. So let me break it down for you: the triple axel is a jump where the skater takes off on one foot and completes three and a half rotations in the air before landing on the opposite foot. It requires speed, power, and the perfect combination of technique and artistry.

But why is the triple axel so significant, you ask? Well, not only is it one of the most difficult jumps in figure skating, but it's also incredibly rare. In fact, it wasn't until the 1970s that anyone even attempted it in competition. Since then, only a select few skaters have been able to master it. And when I say a select few, I mean like, less than 10 in the history of figure skating.

So who are these triple axel masterminds, you ask? Well, let me give you a quick rundown:

- Midori Ito: The legendary Japanese skater was the first woman to land a triple axel in competition back in 1988. She went on to win the silver medal at the 1992 Olympics and is still considered one of the best skaters of all time.
- Tonya Harding: Yep, you know her from the infamous Nancy Kerrigan scandal, but she was also the first American woman to land a triple axel in competition (in 1991). Whether or not you believe she was involved in the attack on Kerrigan, you can't deny her skating talent.
- Mao Asada: The Japanese skater is known for her gorgeous artistry on the ice, but she's also landed 8 triple axels in competition (yes, 8!). She won the silver medal at the 2010 Olympics and the bronze in 2014.
- Mirai Nagasu: The American skater made history at the 2018 Olympics when she became the first American woman to land a triple axel in Olympic competition. She helped the US win the bronze medal in the team event.

There have been a few others who have successfully landed the triple axel in competition, but these four are the ones who really stand out in my mind. And let me tell you, watching them execute that jump is nothing short of mesmerizing. I've watched videos of Midori Ito's triple axel like 100 times and I still get chills every time.

So there you have it, folks. The triple axel is a big deal in figure skating, and only a handful of skaters have truly mastered it. If you ever have the chance to see one attempted in person, I highly recommend it. It's a moment you won't forget. And if you happen to land a triple axel yourself, please let me know so I can give you the standing ovation you deserve.