Danada to celebrate the Kentucky Derby

It's been 43 years since "Lucky Debonair" turned back a belated push by "Dapper Dan" to win the 91st running of the Kentucky Derby.

It was the third time jockey William Shoemaker won the derby.

But few people recall that it was the first and only derby win for a horse from Danada Farm in unincorporated Wheaton.

The following year, 1966, "Advocate" from Danada Farm placed second in the derby. Both horses were owned by Dan and Ada Rice.

Danada Farm still exists today, but in a different form. A total of 28 horses still roam the grounds, but the land and equestrian center now is part of the DuPage County Forest Preserve District.

Today, the 134th Kentucky Derby will bring back memories of the farm's history.

The Danada Equestrian Center will host its first ever "Derby Day at Danada." In addition to watching the race, the day will serve as the center's largest fundraiser for the year.

The family-oriented event will run from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. It will feature kids' activities, food, horse exhibits and demonstrations as well as wagon rides and a silent auction.

Tickets for the event are $25 for adults and $10 for children 12 and younger. Food is included in the ticket price.

Money raised will help pay for scholarships for underprivileged children who want to attend the center's weeklong holistic horse camp. The funds also will pay for a new horse skeleton for educational programs and support the upcoming births of two new foals.