KY News - Big Blue Crush returns Monday as KBC challenges Tennessee in annual blood drive

Nov 17, 2025, 09:40 AM

Big Blue Crush returns Monday as KBC challenges Tennessee in annual blood drive

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Kentucky Blood Center is gearing up for the 38th annual Big Blue Crush, a five-day blood drive that puts Kentucky fans head-to-head with Tennessee supporters in a friendly rivalry aimed at boosting the blood supply, according to a release from KBC.

This year’s competition runs Nov. 17–21 at all KBC donor centers and mobile locations. According to the release, the annual contest between KBC and MEDIC Regional Blood Center in Knoxville is designed to strengthen the blood supply heading into Thanksgiving, when shortened hours and higher medical demand can strain resources.

“A big turnout during Big Blue Crush is critically important for local hospitals and patients,” Mandy Brajuha, KBC’s VP of external relations, said in the release. She added that Big Blue Nation’s participation helps ensure shelves stay stocked for the holiday season.

KBC currently leads the 38-year series 22-14-1 and has won three straight competitions.

According to the release, whole blood donations usually take less than an hour and can save up to three lives. Donors can give at any of KBC’s eight donor centers or mobile drives. Most centers will operate from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. throughout Big Blue Crush.

Appointments can be made at kybloodcenter.org or by calling 800-775-2522. Walk-ins will be accepted as space allows, though appointments are encouraged.

Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (or 16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health, and present a photo ID. Click HERE for permission slips for 16-year-old donors.

Here are the locations in the ABC 36 News Now viewing area:

Beaumont Donor Center

3121 Beaumont Centre Cir.

Lexington, KY 40513

Mon–Fri: 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

Sat: 8 a.m.–2 p.m.

Andover Donor Center

3130 Maple Leaf Dr.

Lexington, KY 40509

Mon–Fri: 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

Sat: 8 a.m.–2 p.m.

Tri-County Donor Center

1466 W. Cumberland Gap Pkwy.

Corbin, KY 40701

Mon–Fri: 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

Sat: 8 a.m.–2 p.m.

Frankfort Donor Center