Pentatonic Upsets Secret Status in Belmont Allowance

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Pentatonic and Secret Status, who had hoped to hook up in the Ruffian Handicap (gr. I) last Saturday, instead ran at Belmont Park today in an allowance race. The Ruffian, a prep for the Breeders' Cup Distaff (gr. I) was part of a card canceled at Belmont after the terrorist attacks Sept. 11 on the World Trade Centers.

In Belmont's first day of racing since the tragedy, Pentatonic had racing room and Secret Status did not. Thus, the 6-1 shot upset the 3-5 favorite in the $57,000 allowance heat. A jockey's objection following the running of the race against the winner was not upheld.

Pentatonic was ridden by John Velazquez while Pat Day piloted Seret Status.

Pearly White made the early pace in the 1 1/16-mile race, with A.O.L. Hayes in second. Rochelle's Term was third early on. As the field turned for home, Day found himself behind a wall of horses while Velazquez had clear sailing on the outside. Secret Status closed for second while A.O.L. Hayes held on for third.

Pentatonic, a 6-year-old mare by Cure the Blues, is owned by Sheila Sherry and trained by Richard Schosberg.

The winner paid $14.80, $3.90 and $3.10, second was worth $2.40 and $2.20 and third $6.20.

The Breeders' Cup will be held at Belmont on Oct. 27.

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