Maggie May or may not

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: Exquisite (6th, $30W) ran a good second to stakes winner America's Friend in her U.S. debut here on July 25 and, though figuring to improve, might not have to to win. Plus a $2EBX combining In My Glory, Exquisite and Mean Heat.

Hunch: Always have loved Rod Stewart's “Maggie May” and the first three words – Wake Up Maggie (7th, $30W) the way he sings them are such a grabber it has been in our head since we saw the name on the entry list.

Yesterday's Handicap: Laird's Lassie (7th, $30W) was scratched, voiding the win bet and the $10 EBX with Laird's Lassie and Streamin Heat.

Yesterday's Hunch: Seany's Courage (2nd, $30W) regressed off a decent debut race earlier and was never a factor.

Yesterday's loss: $30. Bankroll: $2230.10.