Sport skills

Fencing, 1988, Mangiarotti, Milan

Fencing: Practiced between 1986-1989
I didnt really like fencing at those times, as it seemed to me a bit of a feminine sport, but I was forced by my parents to join an accademy called “Mangiarotti” for quite some time. Only after several years I persuaded my parents to allow me to quit for then getting into martial arts. I now sometimes regret that decision, because it turned out to be a very unique, noble and respectable discipline that tries to keep the ties with the previous centuries.

1990, Milan

Martial arts: Practiced regularly for 2 years ; Level: Intermediate
I was quite good at it… I had a very flexible body and could perform various agility movements. My instructor (Carlo Di Blasi) was a very cool man who won few international competitions and later on became the president of various national sport associations. One day he showed us some pictures he shot in Holliwood with his friend Jean Claude Van Dame. I had a great time during his lessons at the “Accademia Europea” . After a while, thanks to Carlo, I found out that I had a unique skill: the ability to perform several high kicks in a row, without lowering or resting the leg. So once, I performed with my kick-series during a live exhibition in a kick boxing tournament.

Thai Boxe diploma

Thai boxe: – Level: green belt

I quit this course after getting my first certification because this sport was too violent and without a proper form. I found myself to be more inclined to harmonious martial arts, where I could make good use of mental strength and concentration instead of muscles and anger only.

me skating – 1992, Florida , USA

Skating , Rollerblade ; Ice skating ,: Practiced occasionally between 1988-1998

The inspiring movie that pulled me out to skate in the streets was “Trashin”. I even brought my skateboard along during a trip to USA (1992) with my parents.
I practiced Ice skating every saturday afternoon for 2 years at the age of 13. A year later, switching to the street rollerblades was easier than ever.

1984, Megevè, France, one of the first lessons probably

Skiing: Practiced regularly for 1 week per year since 1984 till now

Level: semi-professional

Even if my technique is not very refined, I’m capable of reaching high speeds and complete tracks in super-giant style. I’ve always loved skiing, made me feel free by feeling the wind through my hair, my body, and a great velocity under my feet. What a pity it became such an expensive sport nowadays!

Malibu, California 1992, first karting lesson

Driving: Level: Intermediate

I took my first driving license for go-karting back in 1992, Malibu, California, and later on won few karting contests within amateurs. I had around 7 motorbikes and 15 cars so I kept on practicing a lot with different vehicles and racing from time to time when the condition of the roads were favorable.

1995 , Valbonne , France

Golf: Practiced occasionally between 1992-1995

Level: beginner (35 handicap)

I haven’t touched a club in 10 years, probably the picture refers to the last time I played golf…however I can recall some technique and reproduce a correct swing movement by perhaps being able at least to shoot a ball straight.

2006 Maldives

Windsurfing: Practiced regularly in summer 2006 – Level: Beginner

I basically started in Maldives, (2006) by getting few tips by a local instructor, then put the gear in the water and just try it out over and over day after day until I found my way up and surfing! Thanks Majeed!

2002, Wellness gym, Milan

Fitness: Practiced regularly between 1999-2003 Level: semi-professional

I’m prepared enough to know the correct use and position of numerous gym equipment. I can design a training plan and assign external exercises with the use of the free-weights. I also read few books about body-building, its training and some nutrition fundamentals.

Philippines 2006 – scuba diving

Scuba diving: Level: Padi Rescue Diver license ; Number of dives: 41;

I got in to this sport when I lived in Maldives, during 2006 , probably one of the best places in the world where to dive. I had couple of little accidents and got scared, but I’m still studying to get better control in potential hazardous situation.

philippines, Cebu , shooting range

Shooting: Level: beginner ;

In the photo, my first real ammo shooting! My aim is not bad as I practiced since young with plastic bullets and air-guns replicas.

1994, USA

Surfing: Practiced around 5 times
Bodyboarding: Practiced every day in summer 1993-1994

It’s a very easy game, you just need motivation to play with waves and not being afraid of their heights or being caught in their flush ! Go with the flow…