Berks County News

WASHINGTON — Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) is pleased to recognize Blackstone Farm as one of its horses, Angel Of Empire, prepares to run in the Kentucky Derby.

Angel Of Empire was born and bred in Schuylkill County at Blackstone Farm before being sold to Albaugh Family Stables in Iowa. Angel Of Empire is the first Pennsylvania-bred horse to run in the Kentucky Derby since 2017. The horse is one of the three favorites to win with 8-1 odds.

“Just about everything to come out of Pennsylvania’s Ninth Congressional District is top-notch, so it’s no surprise to me that a born and bred horse from Schuylkill County is not only running in the Kentucky Derby, but is one of the favorites to win,” Meuser said. “I applaud the tireless efforts of everyone at Blackstone Farm who helped mold Angel Of Empire into a top-tier racehorse. They should be incredibly proud of themselves, and I know everyone in the Commonwealth will be standing behind them in support on Saturday. My money is on Angel Of Empire, and I have every confidence that I’ll be cashing my ticket.”

Christian Black, partner of Blackstone Farm, said, “I have built my life in Pennsylvania with my supportive wife Christina Black for the last 14 years. In 2010, I became partner with Doug Black and formed Blackstone Farm LLC. Blackstone Farm is located on 350 acres of open space in Pine Grove, Schuylkill County. Here we have operated and created a home for our horses. Each year we bring 50-60 foals into the world. It was here Angel Of Empire (as a healthy long legged foal with an easy demeanor), began his journey in 2020, as he was foaled and raised on Blackstone Farm. Hopeful this amazing journey continues in Louisville this coming Saturday when he is scheduled to enter the starting gate. On Saturday, Christina and I will be attending the 149th Kentucky Derby in Louisville, as the breeder of Angel Of Empire and proudly representing Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horse Breeders. My passion for the Thoroughbred industry and love for the horses has been a part of me for a very long time and always will be. I am appreciative and thankful for the political support the horse breeding industry in Pennsylvania has had for years, especially in our area which allows me to do so. Let’s root home Angel Of Empire as this would be another feather in the cap of all horse breeders in Pennsylvania and the people they directly or indirectly employ. GO PENNSYLVANIA on Saturday and let’s have a trio of Pennsylvania bred Kentucky Derby winners when Angel Of Empire has an opportunity to join Smarty Jones and Lil E. Tee.”

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Original source can be found here.