Kentucky defeats Florida in annual blood donation battle

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – Kentucky saved its best for last as it tallied the highest number of blood donors in a day on the final day of the week long competition with Florida.

The Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) says 271 people donated blood on Friday compared to Florida’s 239, giving Kentucky the victory in the 13th annual Big Blue Slam blood donor battle.

Kentucky took a slim five donor lead into the final day of the competition and ended up winning by 37 donations.  The final tally was Kentucky 1,214 to Florida’s 1,177, according to KBC.

“Big Blue fans really came out strong today, showing their true blue, lifesaving spirit,” said Mandy Brajuha, Vice President for External Relations. “It’s fun to get a win over Florida in this event, but we are overjoyed at the lives that will be saved by the donations made this week.”

Big Blue Slam is the annual blood battle between the Cats and the Gators to see which fans can donate the most blood.

With its victory, Kentucky retakes the lead in the series, 7-6. Big Blue Slam helps to encourage blood donors when winter weather and flu season can hamper donations.