The End

In a fit of creative brilliance and originality, Hank Wesch chose “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: Kelly Leak (9th, $50W) must have sprung a leak a half-mile into the race. That's where the fade from second to 10th began. The $4 EBX combining Southern Exchange, Midshipman, Kelly Leak and Blazing Spirit was a loss because runner-up Coronet of a Baron wasn't included.

Hunch: Exclamation (8th, $30W) didn't have enough oomph in the stretch and finished fourth.

Yesterday's loss: $128  Bankroll: $2511.70  Profit for meeting: $511.70.

Last words: To anyone who followed and bet real money on the selections in this space in this highly successful season we'd like to say three things, with a degree of emotion and conviction not felt for decades, or since the kids were young.

You did WHAT?

What were you THINKING?

Don't EVER do that again.