The Nomination Is In: The John C. Mabee Grade 2 at Del Mar and a Special Request for helping colt Timothy James

The Turk, fresh off a handicapper's holiday, just can't get into the 2 YO's that much, and the youngsters are the focus of the weekend at most tracks today.  When I looked at the stakes schedule I was drawn quickly to this race, but after looking at the PP's, I'm not so sure.  Today's John C. Mabee could be a wonderful race with two of the best distaff turf runners in the game today, Tiz Flirtatious and Lady of Shamrock, but it needs at least three more post positions filled out to be a fun betting race. 

A five horse Graded Stake.  In my mind that should make the race lose graded stakes status for this year as well as next.  If the tracks can't fill the races, they shouldn't get the stakes.  Yeah I know, the Turk is most likely smokin' something, but as a race ran, a 5 horse turf race just isn't that enjoyable and there should be a penalty for not filling the gates, like, I don't know, eliminating the stupid races mid week, reducing the race calendar, but what do I know. 





I'm not sure I'll invest in this one or not;  I do think Lady of Shamrock will turn the tables on Tiz Flirtatious, but that's not exactly going to make a stack of bills appear. Trifecta is on the menu if you feel so inclined. 

More importantly, I've never asked the readers of The Turk for anything, and I'm not asking anyone to do something now, but if you could consider the fundraising request below I would deeply and humbly appreciate it. The people involved with this young colt, Timothy James, are all very good and decent folks who need help paying for emergency colic surgery.  Animal people understand this. From Facebook today

"....Timothy James (the colt) had to have emergency colic surgery last night & needs financial support along with the many prayers. He is named after our Son who sadly died 9/26/2011. His owner, Maria Borell & Timmy are now "family" to us & we want to help ease their great financial burden. Our Facebook Friends/Family all know what this special colt means to the Reynolds' Family. What an amazing memorial tribute this would be to our Tim "Tiznow"! Thank you in advance, from the bottom of our hearts, for any support you that you are able to send!!"

Thank you from the Turk in advance