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 semiserious handicapping, one on pure hunch.

Handicap: Midwest shipper Coronet of a Baron ($30W) cost the Darley Stable of Sheikh Mohammed al Maktoum of Dubai $550,000 at auction in March, won in good time debuting for Eoin Harty and is an upset possibility against this field of Cal-based hot 2-year-olds. Plus a $1 tri key with 'Baron in the win spot over Captain Steel, S.S. Stone and Azul Leon.

Hunch: We're just so titillated and fascinated by revelations of John Edwards' straying. How rare and unusual. But we can always hope that maybe some day another politician will get exposed for Synnin and Grinnin (5th, $30W).

Yesterday's Handicap: Moral Compass (9th, $30W) lost rhythm when roughed up by Tizwest early on, lost ground turning for home and just plain lost. The $1 tri key of Moral Compass to win over Tizwest, Madeo and Liberian Fighter wasn't even close.

Yesterday's Hunch: Preachintothechoir (4th, $30W) maid a belated, unsustained and wide bid turning into the stretch and finished sixth.

Yesterday's loss: $66  Bankroll: $1,738.