Alex Fong | Prestige Online
Tell us about yourself.
I was born and raised in Hong Kong. I was set to go to school in the US, but since the 2000 Sydney Olympics, I got a chance to try my hand at the entertainment industry so I stayed in Hong Kong. I was 15 when I broke the Hong Kong record and two other records — the 200-metre backstroke and the 400-metre relay — at Sydney 2000. I still hold these two records.
What’s something that not a lot of people know about you?
A lot of people know I swim, I’m an actor and I’m heavily involved in philanthropy. My family is also involved in art — my father has a gallery and I collect art myself. However, a lot of people don’t know that I also like to collect famous people’s signatures. In the States, there’s a strong market for this. I collect celebrity memorabilia, mostly from Michael Jordan, like the things he wore during games or practice. I also collect a stuff from Kobe Bryant — whom I met in person — Michael Jackson, Muhammad Ali and others.
Did you always want to be a swimmer?
Actually my parents introduced me to swimming but I liked it and didn’t resist so that’s how I became a swimmer. Parents have a strong role to play in nurturing their children’s talents.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career?
Covid-19. I opened a swimming school recently and now all pools are closed, so this time is quite difficult for me. However, it’s a global problem everyone is facing, so we just have to stay positive.
Whom do you look up to and why?
My parents have had the biggest influence on me. When I was young, dad would always take me to swimming practice and watch my competitions and mom always made sure that I was well taken care of at home. Their care has been instrumental to my growth. My parents spent a lot of time with us at home when we were growing up and I really appreciate that.
What are the key factors for success?
Find your passion. The best case is when that passion is also something you’re good at. Having a good attitude is also very important. Don’t be afraid of failure. No successful person has never failed before. Being humble and polite are also extremely important. No one can do everything by themselves, so cultivate an attitude that encourages people to interact with you, as well as help you.
What are you most proud of?
Swimming around Hong Kong island to raise more than HK$10.5 million for A Drop of Life charity to help more than a million people get access to safe water.
What advice would you offer to aspiring athletes?
Don’t be afraid of hard work. For example, a lot of people will choose sprint swimming over long-distance swimming because the training isn’t as hard and it’s easier to win medals. However, if you do things just for the result, you may sell yourself and your potential short. Building basic skills and having a solid foundation are most important.
How has the pandemic affected your work?
I’ve been doing more digital and online jobs. Despite not being able to host swimming lessons, we’ve still been doing Zoom classes and I’ve also been focusing on my YouTube channel to host classes, such as how to swim or exercise, and even how to interact with your kids. Because I have more time on my hands, I’ve also been doing a lot more interviews in hopes of spreading positivity to inspire others.
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