Nebraska Horseman Mankin Dies at Age 72

Blood-Horse

Stanley C. Mankin, a longtime trainer on the Nebraska circuit who campaigned multiple stakes winner and fan favorite Skunktail, died June 13 in Grand Island, Neb. He was 72.

Mankin’s S.C.M. Farms Inc. was the owner and breeder of Skunktail, a Music Prince gelding out of Leykin, by Dancing Count, whose gray tail stripe made him immensely popular among fans. Skunktail concluded his 12-year racing career in 2002 with 20 wins from 103 starts and $380,075 in earnings. He won 12 stakes races and placed in 19 other stakes and set three track records in Nebraska.

“Stan Mankin was an excellent trainer and an even better person,” trainer Marv Johnson told the Grand Island Independent. “Skunktail was one of the most popular horses in Nebraska racing history and Stan was so proud of him. Everyone will remember Stan Mankin and Skunktail.”

Skunktail was retired to a new career as a show horse after running his last race in 2002 and is currently living his golden years in Valley, Neb. The 25-year-old Skunktail still makes guest appearances at horse shows but no longer competes.

Mankin was also the owner and trainer of Wild Jacob, a Maryland-bred multiple stakes winner and career earner of $244,484.

Funeral services for Mankin are pending. All Faiths Funeral Home in Grand Island is in charge of arrangements.