Ian Ho

Born in Blacksburg, Virginia, Ian Ho is a distinguished Olympian freestyle swimmer representing Hong Kong. Ho’s journey into competitive swimming began at an early age, nurtured by his father, a physics professor, and his mother, a piano teacher. Their encouragement led him to the local aquatic centre, where he first learned to swim – a skill that would eventually propel him onto the international stage. Ho’s athletic prowess was showcased at the 2023 Asian Games, where he clinched a silver medal in the men’s 50-meter freestyle, marking a significant milestone as his first international accolade. Despite not growing up in Hong Kong, Ho has forged a deep connection with the city, having trained there extensively during the pandemic. His commitment to the sport led him to compete in the Tokyo Olympics, where he swam in the men’s 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle events. Balancing his athletic career with academia, Ho graduated from Virginia Tech in 2018 with a degree in mechanical engineering and is currently pursuing a PhD in additive manufacturing. His passion for innovation extends beyond the pool; he enjoys woodworking and digital design, reflecting a creative spirit that complements his athletic discipline.