Valid Port - Golden Gate Race 3, 12/27

So Valid Port goes postward tomorrow over the turf at Golden Gate Fields. He'll be taking on six other 3 year old $12,500 claimers going a mile and sixteenth. Porter has two starts over the turf and no wins, but he did have a respectable 4th place finish going against much tougher at Bay Meadows this summer ($32,000 Optional Claiming). Here's the rundown of the 3rd at Golden Gate:

1 - Change Your Mask: He may as well be named "Change Your Barn" as he's changed hands 3 times since April. Sports a win over this very turf course in a $40,000 starter allowance, but finished a close up 2nd last out at this level. Early speed could play a roll in Porter's race.

2 - King of Bling: Since breaking his maiden over this turf course in late September, he has been beaten in three consecutive $40,000 Starter Allowances with his most recent effort being the weakest of the three. Only win was in front running style.

3 - Little Duanie: An impressive third at this level last out after being claimed previously for $4000 in his first turf start. If turf is his real forte, then he could be a factor.

4 - VALID PORT

5 - Letsgobyebye: Scoring an impressive 81 Beyer at this level on this track last out, he looks like the one to beat. A closer look shows his wins have all been on the engine or just off. If Change Your Mask and King of Bling get sent early, it could clear a path for our boy.

6 - Seattle Delegate: A consistent horse right around this level, but has not won for his new connections since the claim on August 1. The 0-4 does include a nose lost at this distance over this turf course, however.

7 - My Call: Beyers say maybe, but class - 1 win over $4000 claimers - say otherwise.

As far as our boy is concerned, since returning from his break his Beyers have improved with each successive race. He handled the turf OK in his most recent try over it battling horses much better than these. If Ayarza can have him positioned mid-pack and the inside horses all push for the lead, the race could set up nicely for him in the stretch. This would be a tough win, but it is winnable. Best of luck to Porter, we'll be watching on the PC!