SAN MATEO, Calif. - In the best of worlds, trainer John F. Martin wouldn't be running Victoria's Garden in Wednesday's co-feature at Bay Meadows.
It's not that he is worried about the competition. It is just that he would like to have a little time to get to know the 3-year-old filly better.
Martin has an excellent 29 win percentage with first-time starters off claims. He claimed Victoria's Garden for $25,000 on May 8, and has wheeled her back in a $40,000 optional claimer at one mile on the main track. Victoria's Garden is entered for the $40,000 claiming tag.