American Red Cross hosts annual 'UK vs. UL Blood Challenge'

By BOB WHITE

bwhite@thenewsenterprise.com

ELIZABETHTOWN — Cats and Cards fans pumped about the Aug. 31 Governor’s Cup game between the two universities are asked to be equally excited about squeezing out some blood in an annual contest to benefit American Red Cross.

The UK vs. U of L Challenge runs through Aug. 28 at all American Red Cross chapters in the state.

The challenge pits University of Louisville gridiron fans against University of Kentucky supporters in an event aimed to boost blood donations.

Participating donors are eligible for random drawings of Governor’s Cup tickets, backstage passes to a Brooks and Dunn concert, autographed university memorabilia, U of L football game tickets and other prizes.

The university’s fans who win the contest by donating more blood than the opposition will be recognized with the “Blood Cup,” a trophy awarded during the Aug. 31 Governor’s Cup football game at Papa John’s Stadium in Louisville.

Donors can be as young as 16 with a guardian’s consent, so long as they weigh 110 pounds or more. Donors need to bring a donor’s card or two forms of identification in order to give blood. All blood types are needed, according to American Red Cross officials.

The Hardin County Chapter of the American Red Cross is open for blood donations from noon to 6 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays. The Hardin County chapter’s office at 405 W. Dixie Ave. in Elizabethtown can be reached at (270) 765-4979.

To find another collection center, call (800) 448-3543.

Bob White can be

reached at (270) 505-1750.