In a fit of creative brilliance and originality Hank Wesch has chosen “change” as the byword for his '08 Del Mar fantasy betting campaign. Change from the widely misperceived “trend” of nine losing seasons (some narrow) in 10 years at the gig. Or, failing that, a few bucks and change remaining at the end of the meeting from the original imaginary $2,000 stake. No change in the format. One selection on semi-serious handicapping, one on pure hunch.

Handicap: The Pacific Classic comes but once a year, so we'll go big with Well Armed (10th, $50W) hoping he'll prove the best of the speed horses and do what Skimming did twice to start the decade – take 'em wire to wire. Plus a $3 EBX combining Well Armed, Go Between, Mast Track and Student Council.

Hunch: Barack Obama calls upon Senator Joe Biden of Delaware to be his running mate on the Democratic ticket. Political pundits say choosing Mr. Chairman (1st, $30W) of the Foreign Relations Committee could quiet some noise about Obama's inexperience in that area.

Yesterday's Handicap: Spring House (8th, $30W) was a much-the-best winner at odds of 3-2 to produce a $21 profit. The $1 tri key with Spring House to win over Runaway Dancer, Tissy Fit and You Got Me Rocking was lost when Transduction Gold ran second.

Yesterday's Hunch: Ginobili (5th, $10P) reared in the starting gate and was scratched by the track veterinarian, voiding that bet and a $5 EBX combining Ginobili and Nene. The $10 win bet on Nene was a nay nay when he was beaten by the length of a basketball court.

Yesterday's win: $5 Bankroll: $1,980.20