Battle of the Bluegrass Pits UK vs. UofL Donors
LEXINGTON, Ky. – The players have not yet taken the field, but the rivalry between the University of Kentucky Wildcats and University of Louisville Cardinals heats up. This year fans and alumni from across the Commonwealth can vote for their favorite team through blood donations.
Led by each university’s alumni association, the Battle of the Bluegrass Blood Donor Challenge calls for anyone donating blood to the Kentucky Blood Center Aug. 13–Sept. 13 to “vote” for their favorite team.
“We think this is a great way for alumni and fans of both schools to get excited about the game and make a difference in their communities by giving blood,” said Stan Key, Director of Alumni Affairs, University of Kentucky Alumni Association.
The competition comes at an especially critical time for the Kentucky Blood Center which has been slammed with a blood shortage.
The competition is open to all blood donors. Donors will receive a commemorative Battle of the Bluegrass competition shirt and will be entered into a drawing to win two tickets to the football game.
This new challenge is similar to other donor competitions like the annual Big Blue Crush, a blood battle between UK and Tennessee fans. Individuals who give during the Battle of the Bluegrass also will be eligible to give during the Big Blue Crush in November and the Game for Life in February.
“Every donor can get involved with the game by seeing who has the most generous, blood-giving fans. We’re asking Kentuckians: What color do you bleed?” said Jim Tinker, spokesperson for the Kentucky Blood Center.
Those wanting to donate blood can call 1-800-775-2522 or visit kybloodcenter.org to find a donation opportunity and schedule an appointment to give blood.
The Kentucky Blood Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring a safe, adequate blood supply for patients in 67 hospitals and clinics thanks to generous blood donors in 62 counties.