Saving one life is a wonderful thing. Saving hundreds: that's a great success.

Representatives from the Arizona Region of the American Red Cross and Phoenix International Raceway announced today that donors at Tuesday's NASCAR Foundation Blood and Marrow Drive at PIR successfully donated 83 units of blood, helping to save 249 lives.

In addition, the first NASCAR Foundation Blood and Marrow Drive at PIR saw 22 participants register to become part of the National Marrow Donor Registry.

Having just completed its second year nationwide, the NASCAR Foundation Blood and Marrow Drive seeks to provide a unique experience that brings out the goodwill and community pride in all race fans.

Those who visited PIR for the NASCAR Foundation Blood and Marrow Drive had the chance to take in a unique racing experience while at the track. Presenting donors entered a day-long raffle for NASCAR memorabilia and received goody bags packed with exciting PIR and NASCAR racing collectibles. Donors also had the chance to strike their best victory pose in PIR's Gatorade Victory Lane.

Raffle prizes included driver-signed hats and diecast cars, as well as tickets to watch the thrilling NASCAR action during PIR's historic November race weekend.

…And just in case you didn't get to donate yesterday, American Red Cross and PIR officials already have their sights set on what promises to be a rousing return of the NASCAR Foundation Blood and Marrow Drive in 2008.