Looking at the overall quality of all the entries, I have to say, this is one of the best showcases of talent I've seen in a while.
Schu still has the best free style character sprite, but Camus is coming on pretty strong, especially where raw ingenuity is concerned. There is a range of diversity throughout. People are coming up with some nifty interpretations of the popeye character while still capturing his essence. As for myself, I did my best and my hopes are up, but with this calibre of quality output there's no telling for sure who will win. Best of luck to all, and may the best pixel-pusher win.