Carina Mia romps in Grade 2 Eight Belles

Carina Mia left little doubt as to who was the best 3-year-old filly sprinter in the country with a six-length victory in Friday’s $200,000 Eight Belles S. (G2) at Churchill Downs [VIDEO].

In sixth through the first half-mile, the daughter of Malibu Moon sped to the lead in the next two furlongs, galloping clear to the easiest of wins under Julien Leparoux in 1:21.74 for the seven furlongs on a fast main track.

“She broke slowly, actually. First time that happened,” said Leparoux. “She was relaxed and came running at the end. She showed a new style, but it worked out good. She was very comfortable and relaxed. The four (Put Da Blame on Me) came out a little bit (at the start), but not enough to bother me too much. She just really didn’t break that fast today.”

Bred in Kentucky by Spendthrift Farm, Carina Mia captured the Golden Rod S. (G2) last year, also at Churchill Downs, and is 3-1-0 in five starts and has now earned $309.120. The filly is a half-sister to Grade 1 winner Miss Match.