From christianity.about.com:
Donny Robinson won the 2006 National Bicycle League Championship and the 2007 USA Cycling BMX National Championship. Now, for the first time in Olympic history, BMX bicycling is a competitive sport at the 2008 games, and Donny is determined to win a gold medal. Though small in stature, he is considered a David in the world of BMX Goliaths. Not only is he passionate about racing, Donny is passionate about his faith in Christ. As a Christian athlete, his infectious faith spills over into everything he does, revealing a relationship with God that forms the foundation of his zeal for life.
How does your faith influence you as an athletic competitor?
I know that God has a purpose for my life, and he has blessed me with this talent to be a BMX racer for a reason. Entertainers and athletes have more power over today's youth than any political leader or the like could have. So, I know I need to use my talents to spread his Gospel, and that drives me to be successful, so I can make an impact.
Do you ever face difficult challenges because of your stand for Christ?
There have been many times when I've been looked down upon, for my reasons why I don't act a certain way or participate in certain activities, or even why I thank Jesus for things. But, it's not as bad now as it was in the past. Most people I'm around know that I try to live the most Christ-like life I can, and they accept what I represent. I know that if I'm able to compete in the Olympics, there will be much harder times when I'll have pressure to stand my ground for what I believe in. The cost will be worth it though.
Who would you name as a personal hero of the faith?
I have always been the smallest rider in all of my classes, so everyone has said I'm the David in the BMX world of Goliaths, so definitely, David is a hero for the faith he had. Also, my dance teacher, Sara Kirkland, my team manager, Erick "Big E" Bartoldus, and a fellow BMX competitor, Randy Stumpfhauser. These people have led me to Christ and shown me how true Christ-followers live. I thank them for inspiring me to be a better person.
What is the most important life-lesson you have learned?
It's hard for me to speak of my faith because, truthfully, I know I fall way short of what Christ wants from me. I don't think I should be proclaiming anything, when I see some of the things I do sometimes. I know God's mercy renews me every day. He wants us to shine for him, and we want that too.
You can find the whole interview here.
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