Major Rhythm hangs on in Rossi Gold

First the Rossi Gold Stakes was delayed by a thunderstorm, and then when the Belmont Stakes went off. A half-hour later, 9-year-old Major Rhythm held off Rumor Has It to win the $50,000 overnight stakes by a half-length.

Major Rhythm, ridden by Trey Agilar, and Telling caught the pacesetter Rumor Has It after turning for home, but Telling didn't go on, and Rumor Has It re-broke along the rail. Major Rhythm, winning for the 13th time in 59 starts, had enough left to hold on.

Trained by Doug Matthews for owner James Messineo, Major Rhythm ($12) was timed in 1:59.06 for 1 3/16 miles over a grass course rated "good."