Monkeys Ride in Lake, McHenry County Fair Ready to Open

While the McHenry County Fair prepares to open its gates, monkeys raced around Lake County.

Gilligan, a 13-year-old cinnamon Capuchin monkey, was a fierce competitor in the Banana Derby yesterday, riding around the track on the back of a dog.

After the race, Gilligan was a good sport, shaking hands and posing for pictures with adoring young fans. The new Banana Derby at the Lake County Fair included three monkeys, four dogs and an enthusiastic crowd. Parents and kids packed the area around the small track to glimpse see the unusual event.

"This event combines two of man's favorite animals - the dog and the monkey," said announcer Philip Hendricks.

The monkeys were dressed in shiny satin jockey outfits, and rode the backs of the dogs just like jockeys on a horse. Sometimes, the monkeys grabbed the white fence around the track to get that extra competitive edge.

"These are the organ-grinder monkeys of yesteryear," Hendricks said. "The more noise you make, the more action you will receive."

And while the Lake County Fair wraps things up, the McHenry County Fair will begin Aug. 3.

Running from Aug. 3 through Aug. 7, the McHenry County Fair will offer horse, goats, fruit, rabbit shows and more.

Are you a mother that has a daughter that looks like you? The Mother/Daughter Lookalike contest will take place Aug. 4 at 6 p.m. Look like your daughter, or mother, and take home a cash prize.

Entertainment includes karaoke and the Jenae Cherry Band. For a list of events, visit www.mchenrycountyfair.com/2011Schedule.asp.