Kentucky, Florida tied at 243 donors each after first day of annual Big Blue Slam blood drive

With the overall series tied at six wins apiece, Kentucky and Florida continue a heated rivalry with this year’s Big Blue Slam. The two blood centers and fan bases are tied after the first day of the 2021 competition, with 243 donors each on Monday.

Big Blue Slam is the annual blood battle between the Cats and the Gators to see which fans can donate the most blood. The annual competition week goes through Friday, and is at all Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) donor centers and blood drives.

The series is tied at six wins apiece in this annual challenge between KBC and LifeSouth Community Blood Centers in Gainesville. Big Blue Slam helps to encourage blood donors when winter weather and flu season can hamper donations.

“To say this rivarly is competitive, is an understatement,” said Mandy Brajuha, Vice President of External Relations. “It was a great start to an important week for Kentucky Blood Center and we were thrilled at the turnout, despite less than ideal weather.”

As a thank you for saving a life, Kentucky donors will receive a long-sleeved Big Blue Slam T-shirt (pictured).

Donors may give at any KBC mobile blood drive or donor center. KBC donor centers, which will be open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Slam week, are listed below:

Blood donors must be at least 17-years-old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, show a photo I.D. and meet additional requirements. If you are awaiting COVID-19 results due to symptoms, please do not attempt to donate. Sixteen-year-old donors must have a signed parental permission slip, found at kybloodcenter.org.

Appointments are preferred to ensure social distancing. Walk-ins are accepted as space allows. A face covering is required to donate. To schedule a donation, visit kybloodcenter.org or call 800.775.2522.

From Kentucky Blood Center