Undefeated Japan-based Kentucky Derby hopeful Danon Bourbon will make his return to the Bluegrass State a memorable one when he competes May 2 in the $5 million Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve under the famed Twin Spires at Churchill Downs.
Danon Bourbon was bred in Versailles, Ky., by Blue Heaven Farm and later sold to Japanese interests for $450,000 at the 2024 Keeneland September yearling sale. Adam Corndorf, owner of Blue Heaven Farm, said the dark bay or brown Maxfield colt always projected quality and he has followed his racing career closely. Corndorf said Danon Bourbon’s full-circle return for a Kentucky Derby bid helps ease the sting from last spring when Blue Heaven Farm-bred Florida Derby winner Tappan Street missed a planned start in the Kentucky Derby due to an injury.
Danon Bourbon has won his three lifetime starts by a combined margin of 18 ½ lengths for owner Danox Co. Ltd. and trainer Manabu Ikezoe.
