After a tough trip near the front cost him his last race, Valentowner returned to his customary rallying style Wednesday at the Meadows to capture the $25,000 Preferred Handicap Pace, his fifth consecutive win at the Pennsylvania racetrack.

Following his fourth straight victory at his home track, Valentowner tried for the early lead in the May 1 Invitational at Hoosier Park. A shuffle had forced him to come first over, a move that left him weary and with a fourth-place cheque.

On Wednesday, he was content to fall nine lengths behind before Mike Wilder cut him loose. The five-year-old son of Towners Big Guy--Keys Valentine overtook Windsong Fortune in the stretch and downed that rival by a half-length in 1:52.1. Armbro Billow finished third. Jim Arledge, Jr. trains Valentowner, who pushed his career bankroll to $316,971, for owner/breeder Bob Key.

Aaron Merriman drove four winners and Dave Palone three on the 13-race card.

(Meadows)