Grounding phono cable

pig tail it .......

The ground wire makes no difference, except that of course if it isn't there you will really notice it :)

Personally, I would use the same gauge wire and use a metal butt connector to splice on another section of wire. Use a small piece of heatshrink over the connector for a professional appearance. These parts are available at Radio Shack or good auto parts stores. The ground wire is just to drain the static charge from the platter bearing.