The competition between the University of Montana and Montana State began earlier this week when the American Red Cross hosted a blood drive at both schools.
The results show…it’s a tie! The final tally is based on numbers of donors, and both schools had 248.
But Red Cross officials say that no good match ends in a tie, so they're extending the blood drive an extra two weeks to determine who gets bragging rights and the traveling trophy.
The American Red Cross is now scheduling additional appointments for Monday, November 30th and Thursday, December 3rd.
- Breanna Roy reporting from KPAX in Missoula
(from November 17, 2009) University of Montana students get a chance to compete directly with students at Montana State University by giving blood. The fourth annual Blood Drive Challenge starts up on both campuses Tuesday and continues until Wednesday afternoon.
"I'm really excited to see how our final numbers are going to end up but we've had a great turnout we're so thankful to everyone who takes time out of their busy day to come up and save lives," explains Red Cross Recruitment Rep. Julie Brehm.
Donors filled the seats of this years Annual Grizzly/ Bobcats Blood Drive. One donated for the first time.
"I'm so glad I did it, I'm kind of on an emotional high right now," adds UM Senior, Callie Yow.
While another frequent donor did it despite the Griz/Cat rivalry.
"I'm really not a competitive person, I do it for the blood purpose to save lives," explains UM Junior, Colleen Hybner.
Last year the Bobcats lost on the field but walked away with their first win for the Blood Drive and the traveling trophy.
"I'm hoping we can get the trophy back because we did win the first two years and it would be nice to have it back in Grizzly Nation," said Brehm.
So far the numbers haven't been compared between the two schools but it's still early in the competition.
"It started off a little bit slow but its been picking up so hopefully if anyone didn't have an opportunity Tuesday they can come in Wednesday," said Red Cross Team Supervisor for Collections, Dana West.
UM's goal this year is to collect 175 units of blood in the two day Drive.
"It's a great time they get you in and out and make sure every things right for you. Go Griz!" adds UM Junior, Matt Gould.
The blood drive continues Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. if you would like to help out the grizzlies and donate blood.
-Allyson Weller Reporting from KPAX in Missoula
