RIR to host fourth annual blood drive

Richmond International Raceway will host a Virginia Blood Services blood drive on Thursday, Sept. 10, from noon to 5 p.m. in the historic Old Dominion Building (participants may enter the property at Gate 4, off of Laburnum Avenue). Richmond International Raceway’s Drive for Life is a collaborative effort among the track, Virginia Blood Services, The NASCAR Foundation and Nationwide. Donors may register in advance by logging on to www.vablood.org.

“Richmond International Raceway values its community and is always looking for ways to give back to the Greater Richmond Metropolitan Area,” said track president Doug Fritz. “By partnering with these great organizations, we will be able to collect much-needed blood for Virginia residents. I encourage everyone to help support this community effort by participating in Richmond International Raceway’s Drive for Life.”

As a special incentive, those who donate blood will receive a ride around Richmond International Raceway’s ¾-mile track (weather permitting; rides will take place from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.; vouchers provided on a first-come, first-served basis). Additionally, Kyle Petty is scheduled to be there and sign autographs at noon. NASCAR Nationwide Series drivers Brendan Gaughan and Steve Wallace are slated to be there at 2 p.m. and Greg Biffle is scheduled to visit at 4:30 to sign autographs. Nationwide will have a show car and simulator on-site, as well.

Richmond International Raceway’s Drive for Life is a way to contribute to the 2009 NASCAR Foundation Blood Drive. Last year, Richmond International Raceway’s Drive for Life collected more than 100 units of blood for the third consecutive year.

To register and learn more about this event, visit foundation.nascar.com. For specific information about giving blood, please contact Virginia Blood Services at 800-989-4438 or visit www.vablood.org.