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Choose Object > Path > Split Into Grid and add rows and columns with gutters to create a series of smaller rectangles and click OK.
Choose Object > Envelope Distort > Make with Warp. From here it's a bit of a guessing game. Adjust settings to try and get close to the basic overall shape you want. Click OK when you're close.
Now use the Free Transform Tool to rotate and size the Envelope to better batch your desired position and size.
Now simply choose Object > Expand and you can delete any unwanted pieces.