What is the significance of fencing in your life? 

To me, it is a representation of my life for the time being. 

How do you feel your life and career have changed since winning gold in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics? How has your mentality changed in that regard?

There’s been a big shift in my attitude towards my life and career, and I’m learning how to let go of my mentality and be more open-minded. I also have different views on the competition. For example, I don’t care too much about winning games; I just care about whether or not I am playing to my own standard and how to break through.

Many people see you as a key player in promoting sports in Hong Kong. What do you think of the current sports atmosphere in Hong Kong and how it can be improved? 

I feel that there has been a lot of interest since the Tokyo Olympics. I think this is a good thing because more talents are bound to be born, and I hope that parents will let their children pursue sports professionally.

You’ve just been awarded the Cathay Pacific Best of the Best award at the Hong Kong Sports Stars Awards 2021. How do you feel?

I am very happy. Personally, this award is a great affirmation for me. It has helped raise public awareness of fencing and directed more attention towards the local development of sports. I will work hard in the coming year to bring glory to Hong Kong. 

You have just returned to campus life. How do you balance sports training, academics, and your personal time?

I am very clear about my position as an athlete, therefore the main premise is that I hope my daily training and competitions won’t be affected. In fact, the university I’m currently studying at is very understanding, allowing me a lot of flexibility in terms of class time. 

Since becoming an ambassador for Dior, how have your views on fashion changed? What do you think about the relationship between sports and fashion? 

It feels very close to me. Dior’s menswear designs are stylish but also prioritise quality, just like how I strive for excellence in my training. Additionally, I’m an avid sneaker collector and Dior offers a wide variety of sneakers that I can mix and match with different looks. Simply put, it’s suited to any activity. 

What are your thoughts on this fashion shoot? How is it different from previous ones? Can you share some memorable moments?

It was a very relaxing shoot, and I love that the latest Dior menswear winter designs accentuate my height. There was a lot of laughing and joking around; I got on well with the team behind the shoot. It was definitely a new experience outside of training and competitions. 

What do you think of the word “success”? What makes a “successful” man?

Success is a goal you set for yourself, and once you achieve it, you’re successful. 

Who are three people you are most grateful for in life?

My dad, mom and coach. My parents have been very supportive of me all the way through; they gave me the opportunity to switch to full-time athletics after completing Form 3, which is how I got to where I am today. My coach has always been supportive and taught me well, giving constant encouragement and switching up my environment to improve my skills. 

Lastly, how would you describe the current Cheung Ka Long? What kind of Cheung Ka Long do you hope to be in 5 years time? 

Today’s Cheung Ka Long is a young, hard-working athlete. Cheung Ka Long in five years will be a very experienced athlete with good control of his technique and psyche. 

Translated by Alyanna Raissa J. Payos

Creative Director: Jacky Tam
Photographer: Olivia Tsang
Video Director and Videographer: Until Chan
Text: Simon Au
Gaffer: Sing
Digital Tech: Michael Tang
Make-up Artist: Zoey Chin
Hair Stylist: Jean Tong
Video Assistant: Theo
Fashion Editor: Kaz Lam
Fashion Assistant: Fitz So
Talent: Cheung Ka Long
Wardrobe: Dior Men