Kentucky takes the lead in Big Blue Slam blood drive competition

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – The annual Big Blue Slam blood drive competition between Kentucky and Florida is heating up, with UK fans making a strong comeback on day two.

According to the Kentucky Blood Center (KBC), Wildcats fans turned out in force on Tuesday, contributing 257 donations and overtaking Florida’s early lead from Monday. Kentucky now leads the competition 493 to 489 as the event enters its third day.

The blood drive, which runs through Friday, aims to boost blood supplies following recent winter weather disruptions and seasonal illnesses. KBC officials say donations are still needed to ensure hospitals have enough blood available for patients.

Donors can give blood at any of KBC’s eight donor centers, and those who participate this week will receive a free retro Big Blue Slam T-shirt.

For more information on donation locations and eligibility, visit kybloodcenter.org.