Wish there were something I could do about today's 10th race, the featured Grade 1 Personal Ensign. Because if you saw the Delaware Handicap, you might have been underwhelmed by the performance of defending champion Royal Delta. that's what I had in mind until I did the work.

Simply stated, Royal Delta's Delaware Handicap effort was far more impressive than it appeared visually, all out to stave off Tiz Miz Sue. But she chased a faster pace that is usual for her, indeed it was a New Pace Top effort and the fina figure was still as good as any filly in here, including the three-time Grade 1 winning It's Tricky.

Bill Mott's filly owns top back figures, she was for two over this track a prepping third in her loss) and has a worthy (5) 3-1-1 at this trip, and she's worked crisply and with purpose for this. We think she's any price to win it.

In an attempt to make some money with her, we're hoping that Verde Mont escapes the also-eligible list in the finale. She had a troubled start from the inside in her latest before she then rallied wide into the stretch, her Spa debut. She has an excellent chance to make amends and conclude a cold late double.

Running Totals: (1151) 354-221-173 Total Dollar Return: $2,432.00 [win selections only]