Hong Kong actor and former Olympic swimmer Alex Fong announced plans Tuesday to undertake a 35-kilometer charity swim in November 2026, aiming to raise HK$10 million for underprivileged children and those with special educational needs. The 44-year-old made the declaration at a kickoff press conference, where he also participated in a baby crawling competition with his daughter, Isla, making her first public appearance.
Swim for a Cause
Fong will attempt the “Alex Fong Hong Kong-Macau Charity Swim 2026” to support a foundation chaired by his younger brother, Fong Yuen-ming. The event, which will cover 35 kilometers of open water, seeks to fund programs for grassroots families and children requiring special education services. The athlete revealed his wife had suggested he lose weight before the challenge, noting his physique during a previous swim seven years ago was unsatisfactory. However, Fong declined, citing the need to maintain energy levels for the rigorous training regimen.
“My wife worries about me swimming in the open sea, but she hasn’t offered any concrete support beyond saying she’ll wait at the finish line with our daughter,” Fong said with a laugh at the press conference. He added that his father, now in his 80s, has expressed interest in joining the swim, potentially making it a three-generation event with Fong, his brother, and their father tackling the course together.
A Family Affair
The press event featured more than just swimming announcements. Fong and his wife, who have largely kept their daughter out of the spotlight, entered Isla in a baby crawling competition held at the same venue. The actor employed creative tactics to motivate his daughter, using a mobile phone and inflatable float as enticements. When Isla became distracted by other toys, Fong tossed the phone onto a mat to regain her attention—a strategy that ultimately secured victory.
“I’m more exhausted from that crawling race than from any swim training,” Fong admitted, collapsing on the floor after the event. “The venue was so noisy she couldn’t hear me at all. But her uncle insisted both of us participate since the event supports children.”
Fong Yuen-ming, the event organizer, promised to reward his niece with more playtime and new clothes. “He’s already spoiled her with so many outfits,” Fong said. “I hope he doesn’t overdo it, though it’s hard not to spoil her.”
Raising a Future Athlete?
When asked about his daughter’s calm demeanor during the public appearance, Fong joked it might be “accidental.” “She’s extremely active at home, crawling everywhere. My wife and I believe she’s the athletic type—she probably won’t sit still for studies,” he said. “Her talent for precisely pinching my leg hairs suggests potential in both sports and the arts. We’ll nurture whatever abilities she has.”
The actor acknowledged the intense training demands ahead, noting that his wife must understand his frequent absences from home while caring for their daughter. “Training every day is grueling, and I’ll be away from family often,” he said, underscoring the personal sacrifices behind the ambitious fundraiser.
The November 2026 swim represents not only a physical challenge for the veteran athlete but also a family affair that could span three generations, all united by a common cause: supporting children who need extra help to thrive.
