First-ever Sperm Race Raises $1.5 Million for Male Fertility Awareness in Los Angeles

The world's first 'sperm race' was held in Los Angeles, conceived by 17-year-old Eric Zhu and backed by over a million dollars in investment, to draw attention to declining male fertility rates. The event featured two college students, Tristan Milker and Asher Proeger, whose sperm samples competed on a microscopic racetrack modeled after the female reproductive system, with Milker declared the winner. Organizers aimed to use the spectacle, which included live visuals and commentary, to spark conversation around male reproductive health amid reports of a significant global decline in sperm counts over the past 50 years. Despite its humorous presentation and viral appeal, the competition highlighted lifestyle factors affecting fertility and sought to make the topic more approachable to the public. The event, originally slated for the Hollywood Palladium but moved due to controversy, drew hundreds of spectators and offered a substantial cash prize. Eric Zhu emphasized his intent was not aligned with the pro-natalist movement but rather to raise awareness about a pressing health issue.