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Eight Belles Obituary
LOUISVILLE -- Big Brown won the Kentucky Derby by 4 3/4 lengths, a race marred with tragedy after the only filly in the race, Eight Belles, lost her life.
The filly was euthanized on the track after breaking both front ankles. It was not known immediately whether the filly, who finished second to Big Brown, broke her ankles in the race or while pulling up.
Denis of Cork was third in the field of 20 that raced before the second-largest Derby crowd ever, 157,770.
Final time was 2:01.82 for Big Brown, the favorite of the crowd that widely cheered him before and after the race. He returned mutuels of $6.80, $5 and $4.80.
His victory marked the first time in more than 90 years that a colt has won the Derby after only three lifetime starts. Big Brown thus remains undefeated, a feat that was considered outstanding since he had to come from post No. 20 to win Derby 134.
Memories and Condolences
for Eight Belles
478 Entries
Robert
November 30, 2014
(Isaiah 11:6) 6 The wolf will reside for a while with the lamb, And with the young goat the leopard will lie down, And the calf and the lion and the fattened animal will all be together; And a little boy will lead them.
So it will be in the not so distant future when we will have access to nature's wonders in animals and never long again for an animal companion ever again, what joy God has promised for all us animal lovers.
Denise Babjack
May 6, 2011
You reminded me so much of Ruffian !! A terrible tragedy that befell both of you. Now you can always run free, you big beautiful girl!! RIP Eight Belles !!!
Ray Laraway
May 5, 2011
There are only few fillies that shown me beauty, strength, and a will to run with your BIG heart. What a beautiful filly. I know you are running proud and strong still, god bless you.
Linda Waltman
May 5, 2011
We remember you as always at this time of year and remember how hard you raced to try and win. What a heartbreaking day for everyone who loved you. I will never forget how you looked coming over from the barn to be saddled in the paddock on that Derby Day. What a beautiful horse you were. I will see you at the Rainbow Bridge.
Karen Lawrence
May 5, 2011
I think of you often, you were a bright shinning star and your time on earth was way too short. I hope you are running free and watching over those who cared about you. We miss you.
Jane Wade
May 5, 2011
We'll remember you always...beautiful Eight Belles!
Judy Gadwood
May 3, 2011
Beautiful Eight Belles ~ it was three years ago this day you crossed Rainbow Bridge. The memory of you has never left us! Your beauty and grace lives on....
Remembering you with much LOVE! I wish I could hug you, but I can't, so I will ask the Angels to hug you.... XO
Judy
Denise Babjack
October 5, 2010
You reminded me so much of Ruffian. Now, you two can run together in a much better place!You were a true beauty and will be surely missed. First Barbaro and now you. True Champions!!!! RIP Eight Belles :(
kristi desrosiers
May 1, 2010
This filly touched my heart along with many other peoples..i will never forget her...i was lucky enough to have ridden when she was in Aiken for 2 months while she was a two year old...what a classy and amazing filly...always did what you asked of her and she was super sweet...I told my assistant trainer I hated see her go to the track, you just never know what could happen...she would have been a great mom...she was different then a lot of the other fillies in training..super sweet calm cool and collected...she died giving it her all and doing what she loved to do...she will never be forgotten...rip eight belles...
roseann cherasaro
January 29, 2010
rest sweet filly..i will never forget you!
Tribute to Eight Belles
Janet Penick
November 23, 2009
I was there that day and watched you in all your glory. You towered above the boys. You were a feast for the eyes. You touched my heart so that day that I decided to create a tribute to your memory by designing a Gallapalooza horse in your likeness for all your fans to enjoy. Designed with 8 silver bells that resemble impenetrable shields on both your sides, a silver mane and tail flowing in the breeze, 8 bells on your ankles, 2 on each hoof and topped off with a silver halo. You're now the angel horse I imagine you to be racing on the other side. I hope to have your likeness set next your resting place at the KY Derby Museum. I think it the appropriate place for you now where all your fans can behold your angelic image. Race on ~ Girl!
Maria Michalak
November 18, 2008
I'm late to sign this, but I came across the guestbook and couldn't leave without signing.
Eight Belles, you were the best ever.
I saw you for the first time during the pre-derby clip of Larry breezing you. I loved you immediately. You became my girl right then! No other derby entry could compare; you were IT, sweetheart!
And I will never forget your magnificent run for the roses. You did SO well, Eight Belles! Oh, you were incredible. You were amazing!
I was watching the derby replay, but I still cheered you on. I was thrilled with your gallant finish. I'll never forget the feeling of joy, pride, and amazement that swept over me when you crossed the wire. It was an awesome finish, girl. I didn't see Big Brown cross the wire, but I sure saw you, and you were breath-taking. I couldn't have been happier, sweet girl. I was overjoyed!
Watching you go down was probably the most difficult thing I've ever done. I didn't know my heart could break into that many pieces.
But, little girl, there is no doubt in my mind that you always have been and always will be Heaven's Filly. Your destiny was just way too big for this earth! God had a big, big plan for you, and to our grief, part of the plan was for you to go back to Him.
But at least God let you go back to Him in glory. He let you finish your race. When you galloped out, you galloped right into His arms. And although it didn't look like it to us down here, I really believe He caught you when you fell. We will never know (until we get to heaven!) just how many angels were surrounding you to catch you, to love on you ... to bring you home.
And, I have to add, God let the BEST of the best care for His filly while she was here on earth. Larry, Cindy, Rick, Betsy, Gabe ... she had some awesome connections!!!
Eight Belles, I would say goodbye to you, but I just can't. I think that to hold someone in your heart is to keep them forever, so I will keep your hoofprint on my heart forever and ever ... that way I'll never need to say goodbye! You touched my life in a special way, and that's something I'll never, never let go of.
You were awesome, sweetheart, just awesome. Thanks for everything! Run with the angels, sweet girl!!!
I will ALWAYS love you.
(excerpt from a poem I wrote titled "One Special Filly" ->)
"Eight Belles was a little bit of heaven;
She was a true champion and a treasure;
She was a wonderful joy and a blessing...
And we'll remember and love her forever.
Rose
July 7, 2008
Hi Sweet Eight Belles. Now that your settled down in your new home I would like to give your owners/trainer/ and jockey your address. Your humans will know where to write and go when they see you again. You are STILL a champion and always always will be. With all my Love.
Eight Belles --- Representing CONGRESS
United States of America
Jones/Porter/GS Mansion
DERBY HEROINE AVENUE Suite#8
Heaven
2005-2008
Eva
June 6, 2008
Dear Miss Belles,
It makes me happy to read all of the nice things people have said about you. It's been 5 weeks and I still think about you and cry :(
So glad I got to meet you in April even if for a few minutes. I got to rub the nose of a sweet girl and a true champion. Hope you're getting all the peppermints you want!! I'm so glad the 8 bells will ring for you-you deserve it!
Ruth
June 2, 2008
Eight Belles,
I knew nothing about you or horse-racing before Kentucky Derby 2008. Your winning spirit has captivated me. God created you for a purpose to demonstrate that fillies and colts are equally capable. You were special and your trainer had prepared you to reach your potential to truly have won the most prestigious horse race on earth. Run with your heart with no boundary on green pastures. You are loved and missed terribly.
Lona Maguire
May 30, 2008
May our loss of you not be in vain. Happy pastures!
Cindy Giannasi
May 26, 2008
Eight Belles may you rest in peace you will always be number 1 to me.
Enjoy the pastures little girl
JOANNA LIMING
May 21, 2008
Eight Belles - like Ruffian and Barbaro - you have captured our hearts. May heaven find the three of you in green pastures - where your spirits are free.
K Scholvin
May 21, 2008
My Eight Belles, you may have been recorded 2nd in the 2008 Kentucky Derby, but you are 1st place in my heart through eternity. TC and Wolfie have waited for you at the gates and I know were sincerely happy to greet and accept you.
May Navarro
May 21, 2008
You may have come in second in their eyes,but you took first place in our hearts,R.I.P.,beautiful baby.
Shelby Simmons
May 16, 2008
Rest In Peace, Eight Belles. You will be missed and remembered.
BONNIE ASKEY
May 15, 2008
eight belles you are still in my heart and will never forget you.you are at the rainbow bridge where you will run free.you are a beautiful horse and i missyou.
jane G
May 15, 2008
Eight Belles you are a true champion!
R.I.P.
Janelle Secondo
May 15, 2008
Rest in peace Eight Belles. You are a champion. Blessings to all who were in her racing career.
Sarah Dodson
May 14, 2008
Eight Belles, I love you baby girl. You were truly an awesome and spirited beauty.
Teaonia Hoffman
May 13, 2008
eight Belles you were such a beautiful filly i will miss you dearly
rest in peace Eight Belles
Wayne Ditto
May 13, 2008
You ran like the boys and matched them league for league.
Amy Gibson
May 12, 2008
Eight Belles,
Sweetheart you were the champion
that day!! Now it's time for you
sweet girl to run free!!!
caroline
May 12, 2008
Eight Belles, you were a beauty as well as a strong and courageous filly. Like most anyone watching you, I was cheering for you going down the home stretch when you found that next gear and was flying towards Big Brown.
Unfortunately, your heart that day was stronger than your beautiful legs.
Eightbelles, I know you could have
gone on to win many races, but fate had a different plan. I am sure you are enjoying your resting place where there is peace and no pain.
You will always be thought of with fondness. My tears have almost dried, but even though you are now at different pastures your memory is still and always will be alive.
James Hamilton
May 12, 2008
belle gal:
You are loved more than you wll ever know. I have your picture going to the post on my wall.
Say hello to my beloved beagle Barney Boy.
Jim, Margaret and the beagle boys, Larry and Eddy
Nadine Foxwell
May 12, 2008
My heart was as broken as poor Eight Belles' ankles on Derby Day! What a beautiful filly and what a splendid "run for the roses". Truly, having seen this happen to the filly Ruffian, the colt Barbero, and now this talented and gallant Eight Belles, I do not know if I will ever watch racing again. My heart and prayers go out to all those who loved her and took care of her during her short days on earth. She now runs pain free and happy with all those great horses that have gone before her.
Tandi Sager
May 12, 2008
Eight Belles, you were magnificent, and beautiful. You gave your life for the run, may you be adorned with roses forever. Always etched in our hearts. Rest in Peace.
Virginia Taylor
May 12, 2008
Eight Belles, we will miss you. You had the heart of a true champion. Your beauty and grace so touched my life as well as others. You never quit, even until the bitter end. May you live in horse heaven forever and may you find the rainbow bridge......
pam loves horses
May 11, 2008
Eight Bells,I have nicked named my kiity cat,after you,she has her real name too,but I wanted to honor your memory,somehow.I wanted you to win,the only girl,I didnt know you,but that didnt matter.When I watched,then heard about your broken ankles,then your death,I was HORRIFIED,I knew this was the only way,I cried for a long time.Some people may think,gee shes just a horse,these things happen,But imagine if she had these fractures before the race,thats whats beginning to surface.
Judy Childers
May 10, 2008
Eight Belles,
Rest in peace, baby girl. Run fast and free in Heaven's pastures. I love you!
Teresa Chapman
May 10, 2008
Dear Eight Belles...
I have grown up with horses, and I have seen the world through your precious ears and eyes. I am part of your soul and wisdom as a rider and friend. Every year I wait impatiently for the Derby, my favorite song, and the parade of beautiful horses. There you were, such a brave filly to run with all those guys. I'm so sorry you had to suffer so unnecessarily. I've been crying for two weeks. But, I am confident as a horse lover, that you are safe and beautiful somewhere above us all. Eight Belles, please hear my prayer, especially in this day of rush here and there, you are loved forever in my heart.
Teresa Chapman, CA
Cheyenne
May 9, 2008
Eight Bells was a happy horse. She was the only female in the Ky Derby this year. We were watching the derby and saw Eight Bells come in second. We were so glad! But then we saw her laying tragically on the track. We knew something was wrong when she didn't try to get up. Then we heared about her ankles being broke, and the vet having to put her to sleep. RIP (rest in peace) Eight Bells.
Cal
May 9, 2008
Rest In Peace.
Candace Serviss
May 9, 2008
Eight Belles was a filly with heart and brought to my mind Ruffian with her beauty and strength. Such a tragedy for all rest in peace sweet girl!
Barbara Riddle
May 8, 2008
Eight Belles was a wonderful and beautiful horse. She had pride, beauty, charm and was loved by all, You stole my heart and many more hearts. Eight Belles and Barbaro names will always be remembered.
Carmenza Reese
May 8, 2008
this is taken from another poem.
Eight Belles
She taught us much, that filly beast, companion, bravery and love on free reins.
throughout her short life on the spotlight, she opened our souls to joy, to sorrow, both made us whole.
While we must grieve, lets not forget over the rainbow we'll joint our beautiful girl Eight Belles.
Yet, we feel are not apart____
for Eight Belles left horse shoes prints in our hearts.
We will never, ever forget you Beautiful Eight Belles for showing the boys who really the winner was!
your Fans
Note: I have not stop crying for this beautiful creature full of life. I know she is in a better place galloping into divine glory. My heart goes also to the owners of Eight Belles and Trainer for this difficult time.
carmenza Reese
Ashley
May 8, 2008
Eight Belles was a true beauty. This was my first time watching the Derby and I had my hopes set on her. May she rest in peace.
Wanda Wiley
May 8, 2008
What a great tribute to a wonderful horse by placing her in the guest book. She was loved by many and many of those who never knew her and she was a special horse for sure. This was one sad day in racing. So many of us have felt the sadness of Eight Belles fate after such a great race. I had turned on the car radio and was listening to the call and was so excited to find out she came in 2nd. I turned the radio off and only later did I learn the awful news which brought tears to my eyes. What a horse you were girl to run with the boys. You will be missed.
kathryn vry
May 8, 2008
i'm sure eight belles was a good horse and i wish you luck finding a new horse.
Rachael Craig
May 8, 2008
This was too tragic for words. We can keep her in our hearts and memories; what a beautiful girl she was.
Rhonda Phillips
May 8, 2008
You were a beautiful lady out on that race track and may you rest in peace now and my deepest sympathy to the owners, trainers and jockey. May God be with all of you.
sharon botelho
May 8, 2008
a true beauty who wil be missed
Debbie Coubert
May 8, 2008
I cannot even begin to imagine how everyone that had a part in this beautiful horse is feeling in the past days. I did not even know her until the derby and I cry even thinking about this beautiful creature. She showed us all that day what a strong lady she was, and the big heart she had. Now she is in pain no more. We love you Eight Belles.
jeannie luttrell
May 8, 2008
she was beautiful horse one best philly's i have seen she will missed jeannie from edgewater,fll
Anne Cramer
May 7, 2008
So sorry. Rest in Peace Eight Belles.
Teresa Grant
May 7, 2008
Eight Belles, you were a beautiful horse and ran the good race. It was such a tragedy.
To the owners, trainer and the jockey my sincerest sympathy.
Jackie Quinones
May 7, 2008
So sad this had to happen. Rest in peace beautiful horse
Brooke Lemmons
May 7, 2008
I am so sorry to all of the people that were involved with Eight Belles, it's always hard to loose a member of the family. My prayers are with all of you.
Lisa Melton
May 7, 2008
You were one of the most beautiful horses I have ever seen. You were what racing is all about.
Samantha
May 7, 2008
I watched the Derby and was rooting for Big Brown and Eight Belles. She ran her heart out and gave it her best shot. I cried when I heard the announcer say she was put down. She was beautiful. RIP Eight Belles. You will be remembered.
Peggy Bryant
May 7, 2008
Some say there will be no animals in Heaven. I believe that there are and will continue to be as they pass on. God tells us to care for our beasts. They are part of who we are as we learn from them and grow with them and then, sadly, part from them. They are our friends when others are not. They give us unconditional love when others cannot. They give us comfort and a sense of purpose when we are sad and when we doubt; they share in our joy. How could they not be with us in Heaven? They are a part of our family, and we love them. Peace, Eight Belles. God loves you and so do we.
Debbie
May 7, 2008
Eight Belles was focused and absolutley beautiful. She had her sight set on the finish line which she crossed with grace and dignity. We all held out breath as we waited on news. Our hearts were broken when they announced Eight Belles had to be put down. Unfortunately, as fast as she finished the Kentucky Derby her life ended. Our thoughts and prayers are with the owner(s), trainer, jockey and all her family.
winnie williams
May 7, 2008
You were such a beautiful Lady. You gave your all. God Bless
Joyce Turley
May 7, 2008
You were a thing of beauty and will be remembered for a long time.
Mary Buniff
May 7, 2008
My heart fell with you and I will never forget your beautiful, graceful amazing spirit.
Mary Durbin
May 7, 2008
You Made us all Proud to be from Ky. So Sorry, Mary
Wanda Luttrell
May 7, 2008
You were brave and beautiful. I am so sorry for your tragedy.
Catherine Milne
May 7, 2008
Eight Belles, You gave everything to win and your spirit will not be forgotten.
Reva Beagle
May 7, 2008
You gave it your all, and ran with the best. It broke my heart when you went down. May God be with you all.
D. J.
May 7, 2008
I'm so sad for Eight Belles. For some unknown reason I can't get over this tragic event.
She was a beautiful girl and will always be a winner in our hearts.
Eight Belles will never be forgotten.
Richard Bonney
May 7, 2008
So very sad that this had to happen. To see these animals breakdown ever is a sad thing, but to know that they have to die as well makes it a bad deal. So really am sorry.
Susan Kube
May 7, 2008
Dearest Eight Belles: You went into the Derby a Princess but came out a Queen! You showed everyone just how tough;yet sweet and gentle you are.When I saw you come out of that wall of horse and just make a b-line after BigBrn. It was an astonishing sight! So many of us will always miss you. i can picture you know free of pain,your beautiful grey/roan body perfect once again. You are there with another great filly,Ruffiian. You are running together ever so happy. What a beautiful sight! We will always love and remember you. Thank-you for giving us your fans so much to admire and love. With much love to you,Susan
Rebecca Briley
May 6, 2008
Eight Belles, you were truly the belle of the ball. We love you whether you race or win or not--you are a beautiful and graceful lady who made our lives better just by being in them. I hope you are having the best days of your life now and not having to do anything you dislike--no pain, no stress, no struggles. We will always remember you and love you.
Kristy Hoover
May 6, 2008
Oh dear sweet, Eight Belles as I watched you walk out with the boys, I knew in my heart you were a winner. Your beautiful eyes looking into the crowd and little did you know we were looking from home too. You have impacted me and many others. I hope and pray that you are free from pain and that you are now free to run where and when you wish.
Patricia Price
May 6, 2008
Dear sweet Eight Belles, you are so loved and will be missed by so many. You have bonded so many people together to celebrate your life and to mourn your loss. I hope all of the tears that we have cried comfort you. My heartfelt sympathies are extended to all who were so close to you.
Debbie Rice
May 6, 2008
You rode like the wind...You were a Black Beauty. I absolutely adored you and am so proud of you. May you rest in peace. I will miss you!!!!! I love you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Andrea Gonzalez
May 6, 2008
Eight Belles,
I fell in love with you, what a beautiful filly you were. I was so pleased you did so well in the Derby. I know you are over the rainbow, an angel with all the other horses we lost. My deepest sympathys to your human caretakers.
Adam & Holly Potter
May 6, 2008
We really didn't know your races but when we ran across the article it truly broke our hearts. The death of such a beautiful creature really makes people realize how important it is to love each and every animal.
Our Deepest Condolences
Meet our Beautiful Mare, Blue Destiny....Blue was a feedlot rescue that was in risk of going to slaughter
KT'S Lone Cedar Rescues..... Kent & Tandra Dunn
May 6, 2008
Our Deepest Heartfelt Sympathies to You Eight Bells!!...Your owners and your Trainer!!....You ran your heart out to win the race...Second behind Big Brown, only to colapse in tragedy....You are now no longer in pain Beautiful Girl, you are now running in greener pastures at Rainbow Bridge with other horses like yourself. You will forever be remembered for your greatness, your beauty, and your will to win. All knowing you are a winner regardless of the outcome of the race...You are the mare that ran against studs and geldings....Take Care Eight Belles...We Love You!!..XOXO
Sincerely,
Kent and Tandra Dunn Family
Sherry W Conway
May 6, 2008
Eight Belles:
You are no longer in pain and you sure did do a wonderful race and I am soo proud of you. Now you can run and play pain free in Heaven with God. God Bless to all involed with this beautiful horse. My prayers will be with you my friend.
Thelma Black
May 6, 2008
Eight Bells, you beautiful horse, my heart cries for you.
Chris
May 6, 2008
Eight Belles:
Heaven has a new angel to run free and strong. Godspeed Beautiful Lady.
G. Webb
May 6, 2008
Eight Belles, You ran to win and you won our hearts.
Nicole McGarrah
May 6, 2008
My deepest sympathy goes out to everyone who was involved with Eight Belles life. May time heal the wounds of your hearts.
Dianne & Mary Jane O'Regan
May 6, 2008
To the Eight Belles Team:
We cry and mourn with you over the loss of this beautiful creature. God bless you for the love and care that Mr. Potter, Mr. Jones, Mr. Saez (and all those "behind the scenes") gave her. Louisville will always LOVE "Kentucky-Bred" Eight Belles!
Tonia Davenport
May 6, 2008
Eight Belles, you will forever remain an inspiration to me and I will never forget you or the spirit you showed the world. It breaks my heart that you left this world so soon, but I hope we can meet again someday.
tiffany shelton
May 6, 2008
you gave a good fight..u will be missed
michelle turpin
May 6, 2008
Thank you for sharing such a wonderful horse with us even if it was only for a little while. Eight Belles was a wonderful filly and this is nothing short of a tragedy. Bless everyone who is suffering because of her loss.
Christie Sparks
May 6, 2008
Omg, I'm so sad about this and I feel like crying right now from all the pics of her :'(
Cyn Uehara
May 6, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss. Godspeed Eight Belles, you had a heart of a lion.
barbara schaffner
May 6, 2008
eight belles was all heart and she stole mine. heartfelt sympathy goes out to larry jones, gabriel saez and all the others whose lives this special filly touched. thank you for sharing her with us. she won't be forgotten.
Jennifer & Shania Roberts
May 6, 2008
To Eight Belles family,
My daughter and I were so excited to see the filly get to run with the boys to show her outrageous talents. She did just that and proved that she could make dreams happen. We're just sorry that we won't be able to see her race again. We are fortunate that she has touched so many lives young and old! My daughter cried for over an hour after watching her "filly" run in the derby. She too has a black filly that is a spitting image of your Eight Belles, ironically enough her name is AnnaBelle. We will always treasure her in our hearts.
We're sorry for your loss,
Jennifer & Shania
J&S E
May 6, 2008
R.I.P. baby girl.
Penny Lillis
May 6, 2008
Sorry for your loss of such a beautiful Filly. It is so Sad at such a young age she barely had finished growing up.
erin felty
May 6, 2008
i love you eight bells you are amazing
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