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: Queen Of the Catsle (7th, $30W) benefits from the change in weight assignments in regard to Whatsitgonnatake, who prevailed by a neck over the same course here July 17. And the Queen may also benefit from a fast enough pace to set up a late run. Plus a $1 tri key with Queen of the Catsle to win over Whatsitgonnatake, Lochinvar's Gold and Briecat.

Hunch: Just got the first DVD of season five of “The Wire,” the Truthy (5th, $20W), and best, dramatic series in TV history when it comes to providing insight into criminals, cops, politicians, etc. It's set in Baltimore, a city we previously knew from Pimlico.

Yesterday's Handicap: Idiot Proof (7th, $30W) was passed in the final 50 yards by Get Funky, just another heartbreaking late loss. The $1 tri key with Idiot Proof to win over Barber, Get Funky and Magic Texan would have been a winner if the Idiot had held on. Yesterday's Hunch: Greatest (4th, $20W) wasn't, finishing last. But what could we expect from a 40-1 shot. Yesterday's loss: $56. Bankroll: $1,661.