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Raising more than $5,000 is challenging, but Tray Robinson's decision to compete in the 545-mile AIDS/LifeCycle bike ride could be his biggest obstacle athletically and for promoting AIDS awareness.
"AIDS is a disease that many believe they could never get," Robinson said. "But people should be aware that it is a disease that doesn't discriminate, and that we can all get it."
For Robinson, who is Chico State's diversity coordinator, AIDS is very real. Seven years ago, his older brother, Karl, died with the disease.
To promote AIDS awareness in Chico and honor the memory of his brother, Robinson will compete in the ride June 3. Over a week, he will ride with 2,000 participants from the Cow Palace in San Francisco to the Los Angeles Coliseum. Robinson agreed to enter after watching a documentary of last year's ride on TV.
The event requires each rider to come up with a donation of $2,500 from sponsors, and all proceeds goes toward the San Francisco AIDS Foundation.
Robinson, 35, has raised $5,635 so far, which is more than double his goal and what he needed to qualify for the ride.
Contributions, in the form of donations and words of encouragement, have been posted on Robinson's Web page.
Herman Ellis, associate vice president for student life, posted a comment on Robinson's page to show his support.
"I think what Tray is doing is very commendable," Ellis said. "It's a great cause and obviously a cause that is close to his heart."
Robinson is very grateful for the contributions and positive encouragement that everyone has given him.
"The amount of support I have received is so emotional," he said. "It has been one of those times where I have really felt the support of the community behind me."
Robinson has been training rigorously to prepare for the ride. He has been lifting weights, running in the gym, playing basketball, running on a track, riding his bike three days a week and competing in bike rides organized through the community.
"Athletically, the ride will be the hardest thing I have ever done," Robinson said. "But I'll get through it through prayer and support from loved ones."
When he arrives at the Los Angeles Coliseum on June 9, Robinson said he plans to spend the hours after the ride chowing down on a pastrami cheeseburger, fries and an Orange Julius at his favorite eatery, Colossal Burgers.
Robinson's mother, sister and other supporters will also be there to support him when he crosses the finish line, he said. Once back in Chico, he wants to have a barbecue and invite his supporters.
"I want to continue to educate the community about HIV and AIDS," Robinson said. "Everyone knows people with AIDS. We are just unaware that we know them."
To donate to Tray Robinson's fundraising effort or leave him a message of support, go to www.aidslifecycle.org/4702.
Amanda Ponte can be reached at aponte@theorion.com
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