Buckleupbuttercup left little doubt who was best in the $110,700 Eight Belles S. (G3) at Churchill Downs on Derby Day, winning the 7 1/2-furlong contest by 6 1/4-lengths over the sloppy going. The 3-year-old filly was broken and trained by Eddie Woods at his central Florida facility.

This was the stakes debut for the daughter of Najran; she actually began her career at Churchill Downs last November with an easy victory in her debut. In the Eight Belles, broke fifth of seven for the nearly half-mile straight run into the turn. The big 3-5 favorite Hot Dixie Chick had the lead at that point, but an early speed duel over the off track had taken its toll. Buckleupbuttercup swung five-wide into the stretch to quickly assume command, drawing off for a comfortable win. She stopped the timer in 1:29 2/5, earning a lifetime best Beyer Speed Figure of 96.

Bred and owned by Avalon Farms, Buckleupbuttercup has an excellent overall record of 4-2-1 in seven starts. The winner's share of the Eight Belles purse upped her earnings to $118,621. She is trained by Eddie Kenneally.