Golfers have a chance to enjoy more time on the green after giving up some red.People who donate blood along with a friend within the next three months can play two rounds of golf at Riddell’s Bay Golf and Country Club for the price of one.The promotion is part of a new campaign by Bermuda Hospitals Board to encourage more people in the community to give the “gift of life”.Only about three percent of people in Bermuda donate blood about half that found in other developed countries.Health Minister Zane DeSilva was present yesterday for the official launch of the promotion at Riddell’s Bay.He said: “Blood donors are literally saving lives. The health and wellness of our community depends upon the generosity of those who choose to give the gift of life.“Making sure the Bermuda Blood Donor Centre can effectively serve the needs of our community is critical to our health care system.”Riddell’s Bay general manager Dennis Paul said the club was “delighted” to support the blood donor drive.“We hope everyone interested in playing golf will consider becoming a donor. Providing a free round of golf is our way of asking those with a passion for the game to give blood.“And if you aren’t already a regular golfer, what better time to finally give golf a try than when you can also help save a life? It is a pleasure for Riddell’s Bay to participate in a promotion that encourages more people to give blood.”The Bermuda Blood Donor Centre is “thrilled” about the campaign, which may help to increase the local donor pool.Betsie Lombard, medical director of the Blood Transfusion Service, said it only takes 30 minutes to give blood and help save a life.“Over 2,000 patients a year need blood and when someone becomes a donor, they are giving the gift of life to another person.“We are very pleased to launch this promotion in partnership with Riddell’s Bay, and ask golfers and non-golfers alike to consider becoming donors.”The promotion is running between now and April 29. Once you get a donor certificate from the centre you have a year to claim your free round of golf.Blood donor clinics are held Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8.30am to 3pm.l To schedule an appointment telephone 236-5067. To book a free round of golf call Riddell’s Bay on 238-1060.