Teenage entrepreneurs have organized the world's first competitive sperm race at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles. The event will feature sperm samples from two university students racing on a microfluidic device, with live video feed and betting options.
The goal is to raise awareness about male fertility issues, highlighting sperm motility as a significant factor. The organizers aim to make a typically sensitive topic more accessible and engaging.
Two students from rival universities, USC and UCLA, have been selected based on matching biomarkers. The event has attracted investment from a billionaire and sponsorship from Nucleus Genomics. Betting will be facilitated through Polymarket.
The competition will consist of three races, with play-by-play commentary, instant replays, and leaderboards. The race track, mimicking the female reproductive system, is 20cm long, and the sperm will be magnified 40 times for viewing.
The organizers underscore the decline in male sperm counts and motility, emphasizing the importance of discussion and awareness. Approximately 7% of adult men experience infertility, with causes often unknown, although lifestyle choices are believed to be a contributing factor.