Meet Ben

Ben Martens with one of his
cars for the Demo Derby

Ben Martens of Orion started helping his neighbor build cars when he was 14, this triggered his interest to take up the Demolition Derby. For the last four years he has been participating in the demo derby at the Henry County Fair, but unfortunately he hasn't won yet.

His favorite part is the adrenaline rush on competition day, "It's a blast going out on the track and hitting people just for fun and not having to worry about what you break."

He also mentioned that it is fun building the cars because it gives him and his friends an opportunity to hang out.
Building the car it takes a lot of time. After obtaining a car, all of the interior must be taken out and the car can be built after that. There are also certain rules and regulations that dictate how strong the car can be.

Ben Martens competes
in the Demo Derby

On competition day Ben is normally seen finishing up his car and in the early afternoon he will try to get it to the fair so it can be inspected. "That way I have a chance to relax and calm my nerves before the derby starts" he says.
His favorite memory is from the 2011 Henry County Demo Derby when him and his friends bought a car the night before and built it in less than 24 hours, his friend ended up winning the derby with that car. He hopes to one day share that same fate of winning the Henry County Fair Demo Derby.

Ben believes that the Henry County Fair is special because it's his "hometown" county and where great memories can be shared with good friends. Be sure to catch Ben competing in the Demo Derby on June 28th at 6:30 at the grandstand!

Meet Chelsea

Chelsea Vyncke competes in the ridden trail pattern
during the 2013 Equestrian Ambassador Contest

Chelsea Vyncke of Orion was crowned runner-up in 2012 for the Henry County Equestrian Ambassador contest, she ran again in 2013 and received the title of Henry County Equestrian Ambassador. "I have had a wonderful year of visiting with many people, attending equestrian-related functions, meeting new friends, and educating people about horses, as well as my title" she says of her experience. She first started showing horses in fun shows but in 2009 started showing horses for 4-H and has loved it ever since.

The preparation begins with practices scheduled in April with contestants riding their horses for an hour and then work on the halter. The preparation continues up until fair week, "the week before the show, I clean up my tack and get everything ready I will need for my horse and myself, the day before the show is spent tying up loose ends to prepare for the show, such as packing the trailer and bathing my horse." Her favorite part about showing horses is the friendships she has gained. "I have gained many life-long friends through 4-H and horse showing. I enjoy going to shows and competing against people I know, it makes the shows more fun" she says.

A typical day for Chelsea last year as an ambassador would start about mid-morning, with the exception of the horse show. She spent fair week preparing for and competing in the Equestrian Ambassador contest, attending the harness races, talent show and other grandstand events. Her 4-H club also worked the food stand and helping other 4-H competitors get their horse settled in the horse barn, and helping with the speed horse show and handing out awards during the 4-H fun show.

Chelsea Vyncke (left) with Miss Rodeo 2013 Cassandra Spivey,
at her send off party for Miss Rodeo America

One of her favorite memories is when she helped Miss Rodeo Illinois, Cassandra Spivey, with her coronation and send-off party for Miss Rodeo America. She has had the opportunity to meet famous horsemen such as Sharon Camarillo and Al Dunning and also meet famous trainers such as Chris Cox.
To Chelsea the Henry County Fair is special because of that "home town" feeling. "I've met many of my friends through the fair, and I know I have gained many life-long friends. It's a great fair with something for everyone."