VALDOSTA — The Winnersville Classic Blood Drive kicked off July 19 with Lowndes High School collecting 45 units of blood, according to organizers. 

The event took place from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at Martin Stadium and was hosted by the school athletic department.

Lowndes and Valdosta High School tangle in the Winnersville Classic, but this summer, the rival schools are pitted against one another for blood donations.

Donations will benefit LifeSouth Valdosta, a provider for South Georgia Medical Center, with 100 percent of its blood and blood products assisting the hospital, according to organizers.

Valdosta High is set to host its blood drive 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, July 27, at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium. The Wildcats need at least 46 units to win.

The victor will be announced and receive a trophy during the Vikings-Wildcats matchup Sept. 21.

Laura Bialeck, LifeSouth community development coordinator, said members of Lowndes’ football team and coaching staff donated blood along with community members.

“We were very happy with the turnout … considering the weather, it turned out very well,” she said.

Bialeck confirmed an available raffle at both blood drives for a chance to win a free night’s stay at the Courtyard Marriott.

Registration for Valdosta’s blood drive can be completed at the city’s Board of Education office or the Wound Care and Children’s Clinic, 2330 N. Ashley St. 

Amanda Usher is a reporter at The Valdosta Daily Times. She can be contacted at 229-244-3400 ext.1274.