Eight Belles was the only filly to run in the Kentucky Derby today. She ran the race of her life. Read more and see photo of her below.

Eight Belles
Eight Belles

Eight Belles ran with the big boys today and she did herself and all around her proud. She was the only filly to run the Kentucky Derby since 1999. Only three fillies have ever won the Derby, the last being Winning Colors in 1988.

Today’s race was reminiscent of the race run by Ruffian and Foolish Pleasure. In that race the filly gave it all she had as Eight Belles did today. Eight Belles came in second to Big Brown, who was favored to win. She ran her heart out … literally.

As Eight Belles crossed the finish line in a phenomenal second place, her heart gave out. She slumped to the ground. Her jockey slid off her. Both of her front ankles were broken. The on-site veterinarian was called in and she had to be euthanised on the track immediately after the race.

She was a grand and beautiful horse who literally went down in a blaze of glory.

See photos, a video and a biography of Eight Belles.

Last photos of Eight Belles at the Kentucky Derby.

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Eight Belles Last Photos