Ghanaati shows class Coronation Stakes

English 1,000 Guineas winner Ghanaati claimed her second major group 1 mile race of the season on Friday, taking a top quality renewal in the 2009 Coronation Stakes.

Ghanaati was the only one of the three Guineas winners in the field to finish with a place, as French raider Reggane claimed second place ahead of Rainbow View. Irish 1,000 Guineas winner Again finished out of the money, as did French Guineas winner, Elusive Wave.

Trainer Barry Hills, the father of winning jockey Richard Hills, missed the race as he underwent treatment for a life threatening blood disorder.

"There are only two women in my life, my wife and this filly," Richard Hills said after the race. "She's aptly-named because in Arabic Ghanaati means 'My Love' and she's certainly that today."

Many bookmakers had priced the daughter of Giant’s Causeway behind Elusive Wave in their markets, believing that her win at the Newmarket Guineas against average opposition had flattered her. Ghanaati had the last say, however, setting the course record for the Coronation Stakes.

“She is the best filly I've ridden,” Hills concluded. “It meant more than any race I have ever won.”