Go Aztecs

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: Vacare (9th, $30W) has been running in Grade I events in New York, is proven at the 1 1/16th mile distance and should be tough if she takes to the turf course here. Plus a $3 EBX combining Zardana, Vacare and America's Friend.

Hunch: SDSU kicks off a new football season tonight and the Aztecs and their followers must focus on Startin Fresh (3rd, $30W) and forget about the depressing last decade or so.

Yesterday's Handicap: Young Joe (7th, $30W) led from the start to 3/16ths pole and gave way grudgingly to Slew's Tiznow while finishing second. The $2 EBX combining Young Joe, Slew's Tiznow and Leonides hit with the first two, returning a $68.60 profit for a $38.60 total profit on the race.

Yesterday's Hunch: Pick to Click (5th, $30W) based upon the then-impending revelation of John McCain's VP choice won with the beauty of a female Alaskan governor, paying $6.20, generating a $62 profit and creating an unprecedented veep sweep since a previous hunch based on Joe Biden also won.

Yesterday's win: $100.60. Bankroll: $2759.70