Hopewell, NJ – Bluestone Farms sadly announces the passing of Eric Freeman, 80 Eric, along with Mitchel Skolnick, established Bluestone Farms in 1998. Frank Russo later joined them.
After leaving Southwind Farms, Mitchel decided to establish Bluestone Farms.
“I had been introduced to Eric through some race groups that my father had established,” said Mitchel. “I remember mentioning to Eric that I was going to purchase some land and establish my own farm. At first, he said he would not be much interested in the farm but would like to own some horses. However, as time passed, Eric became increasingly interested in the farm’s prospects, and so, we became 50/50 partners in all of Bluestone’s endeavors.”
Eric was also a principal owner of Capitol Risk Concepts, an insurance brokerage. It was his partner, Dick Kohlhausen, who introduced Eric to Allen Skolnick and so began Eric’s foray into Standardbred racing. In later years, Eric established Capitol Risk Concepts of Florida with his close and long-term friend, Steve Arak. Steve commented that “Eric was instrumental in making the company very successful.”
Eric grew up outside of Boston. He attended Cornell University on a football scholarship. He later attended the University of Virginia where he graduated.
Over the 27 years he was a partner in Bluestone, Eric shared in the racing ownership of Always B Miki, ($2,715,368), Always A Virgin ($1,135,559), Bar Slide, ($647,971), Flawless Bluestone ($589,935), For A Dancer ($521,127), Bright Baby Blues ($492,203) and most recently Hung Over ($516,233).
As part of Bluestone’s breeding operation, he shared in the sales of Damien for $1,000,000, Powhatan for $500,000, Whose Blues $300,000, In Your Eyes $280,000 and Propulsion $250,000, among many other top selling yearlings.
Eric is survived by his partner of more than 40 years, Maddie Russell, her son, and daughter David (Carla), Jodi (Tony). He had no immediate blood relatives.
“Eric kept a relatively low profile, though he often attended the races,” said Mitchel. “But make no mistake about it – he was an integral part of the many successes Bluestone Farms has had over the years. His counsel, business judgement and most of all his friendship will be deeply missed.”