The English Channel Issue 2.8 April 2001

Olympic swimmer Alex Fong is one of the most sought after advertising models in Hong Kong right now. Since his return from Sydney last year, he has already appeared in many TV commercials for companies like Hi-C, Reebok and Motorola. In addition to being a competitve athlete and a star, he is also a student at the University of Hong Kong, an undergraduate of Bachelor of Business Administration. The English Channel is lucky to be able to talk to him and learn more about his different talents.

TEC=The English Channel

Alex=Alex Fong

TEC: You have been in many international swimming competitions. How are those different from the local ones?

Alex: First of all, the standards are much higher at international meets. Secondly, there are just many more swimmers. For example, when I went to a gala in Japan last year, there were 90 groups of swimmers competing for the 50M Freestyle Championship, but in Hong Kong, usually there are only about 20 groups. Also, the pressure is much greater because there are so many good swimmers from different parts of the world.

TEC: What do you think is the key to winning in a competition?

Alex: I think the most important element is my own abilities. In a swimming competition, you simply cannot win without the necessary strengths. Another important element is confident, which can be acquired through endless practice.

TEC: How do you strike a balance between studying and training?

Alex: I keep a very organized schedule. Every week I have set 10 training sessions, with each lasting two hours. I also go to school 5 days a week. When drawing closer to a competition, I would put extra time into swimming. Likewise, I do the same when it is getting closer to my examinations. I usually have a busy schedule. But I still get plenty of rest, which is important.

TEC: What is your future plan?Study? Showbiz? Swimming? Or business?

Alex: I will try to continue my commitments in school, swimming and entertainment. In fact, I am very interested in the entertainment industry. I have already signed a contract with a record company, but my first album will not come out until summer. Luckily, my manager understands that I have a busy schedule.

TEC: How do you feel now that you have become an idol?

Alex: The main reason that I am an idol now is because I am an athlete. It is difficult to be a competitive swimmer and an idol at the same time. Nowadays, most idols are singers or actors. I think it is a good idea to have athletes as idols, like Li Lai Shan and Wong Tak Shum. It is healthier this way, and it helps the development of sports in Hong Kong.

TEC: Some encouragement for the readers of The English Channel?

Alex: "It is not what you used to be, it is what you are today" is my motto. It means do not look back; you should always look forward and plan your own future.

(We are so thankful that Alex Fong has squeezed a bit of his precious time for our interview. Let's hope that alex can continue to enjoy his busy yet challenging life.)