Greyhound jockeys or monkey jockeys are capuchin monkeys trained to ride racing dogs for sport over a 5/16 mile course.
Monkey Greyhound racing began as a fad in Palm Beach, Florida, America in 1930. The concept was originally conceived by Loretta and Charlie David.[1]
The couple obtained 12 female capuchin monkeys and over a period of two years trained them to ride Greyhound racing dogs in specially designed saddle harnesses.
The craze continued in America until the late 1930s before losing public interest. Monkey dog racing was still prevalent in Mexico and Australia in the late 1950s.
Several variants of Monkey dog racing have existed since. In Australia, the use of water and hurdle jumps were introduced.
"America's Favorite Monkey Jockeys" are currently traveling the USA with the Banana Derby. The Banana Derby features capuchin monkeys riding mixed breed dogs, appearing at fairs and festivals.