The Battle for Follicle Supremacy: A Tale of Two Traders
Given the work they do, it should come as no surprise that the traders at USC are known to take on just about any challenge. When the market doesn’t present them with one, they create their own amongst themselves. Chug a gallon of milk? Done. Eat 3 Chipotle Burritos in an hour? No problem. Push up contest? Already had four before lunch time.
Tired of the same old wagers, the crucible of intense competition that is the USC office formed a new challenge. This past October, Steve Knier looked at his co-worker, Michael Peterson, and realized that neither man had shaved or cut his hair for quite a while. Seizing the opportunity to test his hair-growing mettle, Steve challenged Michael to be the last man bearded- the first person to trim the hair on his head or face would be the loser. The prize? 50 of our finest American dollars, the chance to dictate the other man’s hair and beard styling for a week, and all the pride on planet Earth. 4 months later and neither man is showing signs of letting up. Once both were considered clean-cut and hardworking – now, neither trader is shying away from what can only be described as downright reckless hair growth. Outcast from the affection of their wives and terrifying their children with beards that would be the envy of any caveman, this competition is only heating up. Which of our hirsute heroes will cave first to spousal pressure and the siren song of Gillette? Only time will tell.
