GENESEE TOWNSHIP, Michigan
— Eleven-year-old Elijah Perry of Grand Blanc Township never thought his old sneakers would be worth $200.
But Perry’s pair of black DC sneakers were rank enough to come out on top in Saturday’s 4th annual Odor-Eaters Rotten Sneaker contest at Bluebell Beach.
“I probably won because I really don’t wear socks and drag my feet a lot,” said Elijah, who beat out seven other pairs of shoes whose owners ranged from 5 to 15 years old.
Five judges rated the sneakers on appearance and odor, awarding points on a scale that ranged from just bad to really horrendous.
Each contestant had to wear the sneakers to the event — no small feat for Elijah.
“Almost the entire front of his sole’s were blown out, they looked pretty beat,” said contest judge and Channel 25 sports anchor Dillon Collier.
Elijah’s mother said her son has “quite a reputation” when it comes to his footwear.
“Coming back from up north, family members once had to pull over, take Eli’s shoes, put them in a bag and throw them in the trunk,” said Amy Perry.
Appearances aside, Elijah said he likes his tennis shoes even though his mom has tried to throw the size 6 and-a-halfs into the trash.
“They are pretty comfortable and really squishy,” said Elijah. “They feel good when I run.”
In addition to the $200, Elijah won a Golden Sneaker award and foot care products.
Hosted by the Genesee County Parks and Recreation Commission, the Odor-Eaters Rotten Sneaker contest here is one of several held around the country this year.
“(The contest) is just odd enough that it sparks interest,” said Nancy Edwards, recreation programming specialist for the county parks commission.