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: Son of Pegasus (3rd, $30W) made a nice late rally to only miss by a head in July 4 debut at Hollywood Park and would figure to improve with the experience and trainer Neil Drysdale's subsequent tweaking. Plus a $1 tri key with 'Pegasus over Dark Hawk, Benny's Benchmark and Athenry.

Hunch: Trainer Mike Puype marks birthday No. 42 today and he's got a pair of potential gift givers in Genuine Magic (6th, $10W) and Unusual Jane (7th, $10W). Plus a $5 double of Genuine Magic to Unusual Jane.

Yesterday's Handicap: Super Strut (7th, $20W) made a five-wide move on the turn to get the lead and held on for a half-length score at 9-2 and a $94 profit. The $2 EBX of Super Strut, Scat Thief and Wild Buddy was destroyed when Top This and That rallied for second.

Yesterday's Hunch: Foxysox (8th, $30W) was in it to mid-stretch but didn't win it and, in fact, finished fourth.

Yesterday's win: $64. Bankroll: $1,906.