HIV Boat

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Across the river from Phnom Penh – in the temporary village housing many of the 30,000 racers expected in town this weekend – are docked three long boats under the direction of Sou Sotheavy, who works for the Womens Network for Unity. He’s brought 210 racers from Ken Savy district in Kandon Provence – about 30 km from Phnom Penh. They arrived via the river today for some final practice prior to the big races. These teams are unique in that 50 of the rowers are HIV positive – a number he says is meant to highlight the fact that in their villages as manyh as 5-6% of people are infected. They’re efforts are part of an anti-discrimination campaign meant to show others that people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) can work together with those un-infectd – and they can succeed. “They’re strong,” he says, smiling and making a muscle. For him, this is just the start of a lesson they can bring back to their villages, and in turn teach to their family and peers. It’s an experience that cuts to the heart of his own story – Sou Sotheavy, himself a PLHA, said “I didn’t ask for this. None of the Cambodians asked for this. But we must fight to stop the spread of the disease and stop the discrimination.” As important as the anti-discrimination message is, these racers also really want to win. Although this is only their second year competing, Sou Sotheavy predicts a big finish: “100%” He said, “We’re going to win, 100%.”