June 8 - After the tragic death of the talented crowd pleaser, Eight Belles, at the Kentucky Derby in May this year, her owner and representatives of the Louisville-based Kentucky Derby Museum announced this week that the filly will be laid to rest at the base of a tree in the museum's courtyard.

Horse racing fans across America and even further afield, were shocked and upset when Eight Belles broke down - having broken her two front ankles - after finishing the Kentucky Derby in second place. She had to be euthanized on the track, in one of the horse racing's saddest moments.

It seems only fitting that the Kentucky Derby Museum at Churchill Downs Racecourse will be Eight Belles last resting place, as it will give her fans the chance to pay their last respects and homage to the plucky runner. She will be laid to rest alongside four other great Kentucky Derby champions.

Said Eight Belles owner, Rick Porter, 'Since her death, my family and I have experienced some crushing lows, as we are still coming to grips with her death. However, we are determined to see something positive come out of this and believe a memorial at Churchill Downs is just what Eight Belles deserves.'

While an interment date is yet to be finalized, the historic Louisville race track is also planning to host a 'Eight Belles' tribute and ceremony on Kentucky Derby Day next year, to help keep the memory of the talented sprinter alive.

Said Lynn Ashton, executive director of the Kentucky Derby Museum, 'Eight Belles' amazing performance in her last Kentucky Derby will not be soon forgotten, and we are privileged to be able to honor her talent, efforts and her sacrifice. We hope Eight Belles' memorial will serve as a lasting tribute to this great filly.'

Both Porter and the Churchill Downs Foundation will donate $25,000 each to the Eight Belles Memorial Fund, which was established by Thoroughbred Charities of America following her death.