Episode 91: Florence, mile tracks, & Labor Day weekend racing

Josh and EJ discuss major developments in dirt track racing, including Knoxville Nationals passing concerns, the potential loss of Ponderosa Speedway and Atomic Speedway, standout Ohio drivers, and Labor Day weekend events. They also preview Boone Speedway’s weeklong Supernationals and the Hillbilly 100 at West Virginia Motor Speedway.

In this episode:

Dirt racing history: Jac Haudenschild won the 2008 World of Outlaws Gold Cup Race of Champions at Silver Dollar Speedway.

Supporting Spark Simon: Former Limaland announcer and Josh’s family friend Spark Simon has been diagnosed with ALS. The hosts share their support for Spark and his family.

Knoxville Nationals passing concerns: The championship A-Main has gone more than 200 laps without a lead change, dating back to 2022. Josh and EJ discuss how weather-affected track conditions and the race format may be contributing to limited passing.

Tracks at risk: Ponderosa Speedway canceled its remaining racing and may not reopen this season. Atomic Speedway is also expected to close after its upcoming race while a potential sale is considered. The hosts emphasize supporting local dirt tracks.

Kyle Larson’s Knoxville success: Larson reportedly became the first driver to win four features during Knoxville Nationals week.

Dust and safety at Springfield: Kaylee Bryson described a severe dust storm during the USAC Silver Crown Springfield Mile. Josh and EJ discuss the visibility problems, daytime heat, and risks of racing a sprint car on a mile-long track.

Kole Kirkman’s first sprint car win: The USAC Midwest Thunder Midget rookie points leader completed double duty at Lawrenceburg and captured his first 410 non-wing sprint car victory.

Aaron Reutzel’s late model debut: Reutzel will drive one of Gordy Gundaker’s late models at the Gateway Dirt Nationals from December 3-5.

Ohio talent gets opportunities: Bryce Lucius is set to replace Kasey Jenderzjek in Bill Rose Racing’s No. 6 World of Outlaws car after winning the 2026 Brad Doty Classic.

A night of first-time winners: Garret Williamson, Dylan Bloomfield, and Cale Coons all earned their first wins with the World of Outlaws, High Limit, and USAC, respectively, on August 28.

Labor Day weekend racing: Boone Speedway hosts the 2026 IMCA Speedway Motors Supernationals from September 5-12, while West Virginia Motor Speedway presents the Hillbilly 100 weekend, featuring a $25,000-to-win.

Timestamps

00:00 - Episode 91 introduction and the week’s major topics

00:34 - Jac Haudenschild's 2008 Gold Cup victory

01:03 - Supporting Spark Simon during his ALS diagnosis

01:30 - Knoxville Nationals goes more than 200 laps without a lead change

02:23 - Why Knoxville’s format and track conditions may limit passing

03:51 - Ponderosa Speedway cancels racing and may not reopen

04:22 - Atomic Speedway’s expected final race and possible sale

05:34 - Why fans should support their local dirt tracks

05:39 - Kyle Larson’s four Knoxville Nationals week feature wins

07:14 - Dust storm and safety concerns at the Springfield Mile

09:43 - Kole Kirkman earns his first 410 sprint car victory

10:37 - Aaron Reutzel prepares for his late model debut

12:10 - Bryce Lucius joins Bill Rose Racing

13:31 - Three national sprint car tours produce first-time winners

14:13 - Rico Abreu earns his third Gold Cup title

16:32 - Previewing the weeklong IMCA Supernationals at Boone

17:12 - Hillbilly 100 weekend purse and division lineup

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Episode 90: Waynesfield, Torn Up Rides, and National Champion

Josh and EJ cover a packed stretch of dirt racing news, from crown jewel weekend chaos to track business concerns and major team moves. The episode runs through the Knoxville 360 Nationals, Knoxville Nationals, North South 100, and Iron Man 55, while also digging into safety issues, format debates, and big sponsorship news across sprint cars and late models.

In this episode, they break down what happened on track, what it means for the sport, and why these storylines matter beyond the results sheet.

Key topics

The Summer Fast for the Super Dirt Car Series Big Block Modifieds kicks off with four straight nights at four different tracks, with points deciding the champion.

Waynesfield Speedway’s uncertain future takes center stage.

Brent Marks Racing being acquired by Chase Briscoe Racing becomes a major dirt business story, with Brent Marks staying on as driver for five years.

The Knoxville 360 Nationals format debate gets real, with both hosts discussing whether 20 laps is enough and whether 410 regulars should be in the field at all.

The North South 100 delivers both chaos and a fairytale, with Josh Rice winning at Florence Speedway after a race full of torn-up cars and major wrecks.

Kyle Larson’s late moves at the Front Row Challenge and Knoxville Nationals spark the usual split reactions.

Anthony Macri’s injury at the Capitani Classic adds another rough chapter to a season already marked by crashes and setbacks.

The Knoxville Nationals prelim fuel tank problem with Ryan Timms draws strong criticism from Josh, who argues the safety risks made the situation unacceptable.

Weather and delays at Knoxville and the Kings Royal create a social media spectacle, including Larson flight tracking and nonstop speculation around race timing.

Chili’s stepping in as title sponsor for the Sprint Car SmackDown at Kokomo is treated as a sign of growing corporate interest in dirt racing, with hopes that sponsorship money trickles down to smaller teams too.

Timestamps

00:28 - This week in dirt racing history: Great American Dirt Track, Shane Stewart wins

00:55 - SummerFast preview across four tracks in Super Dirt Car Series action

01:56 - Waynesfield Speedway uncertainty and why the track needs backing

03:55 - Chase Briscoe acquires Brent Marks Racing

06:57 - Carson Macedo argues Knoxville 360 Nationals needs more laps

08:52 - Would Iron Man 55 move to help 360 Nationals field size

11:11 - 410 drivers in the 360 Nationals

11:40 - North South 100 chaos, crashes, and Josh Rice’s win

14:30 - Kyle Larson’s slide job on Ryan Timms at the Front Row Challenge

17:08 - Anthony Macri injured again at the Capitini Classic

18:26 - Knoxville Nationals pre-lim night fuel-tank issue with Ryan Timms

23:12 - Weather, Larson watch, and the Knoxville Nationals/Kings Royal delays

24:44 - Knoxville Nationals format change and driver frustration

28:40 - Gio Selzi and Brenham Crouch’s violent crash

31:22 - Chili’s sponsors Kokomo’s Sprint Car SmackDown

38:08 - Race recap begins: Thursday and Friday results

41:50 - Saturday results, including Knoxville, Florence, and local divisions

44:09 - Iron Man 55, Knoxville 360 Nationals finale, and more weekend winners

49:28 - Knoxville Nationals finale: Kyle Larson wins, Sheldon second, Casey Kane third

51:04 - Upcoming race schedule for the next week

55:03 - Wrap-up, closing thoughts, and Florence Speedway plans

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Episode 89: Indiana Sprint Week, North/South 100, & Knoxville Nationals

Josh and EJ dive into this episode as we explore the latest in dirt track racing, revisiting historical moments, celebrating recent victories, and previewing upcoming major events like the Knoxville Nationals and North South 100. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the sport, this episode offers insights, race recaps, and predictions straight from the heart of dirt racing.

Key Topics:

Updates on racer Case Higgins' recovery from severe burns and the racing community's support

Discussion of Kasey Kahne's return in a striking new #4 sprint car

Justin Grant joins the century club with his 100th USAC win at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Analysis of Indiana Sprint Week's strong car counts and Kyle Cummins' first Indiana Sprint Week title

In-depth debate on fuel tank safety, size, and race length considerations for sprint and outlaw cars

Preview of major upcoming races: North/South 100, Knoxville Nationals, and the 360 Knoxville Nationals

Commentary on race strategies, driver predictions, and the significance of big-money events

Recap of recent race results across multiple tracks and series, highlighting notable wins and emerging stars

Personal plans and reflections from hosts about the upcoming racing schedule and fan experiences

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and Episode Overview

00:30 - Eldora Speedway 2004 USAC Sprint Race Recap

1:08 - Update on racer Case Higgins' recovery journey

1:51 - Kasey Kahne's return with a striking number four sprint car

2:21 - Justin Grant's historic 100th USAC win at IMS

3:17 - Indiana Sprint Week highlights and car counts

4:12 - Race funding and pay scale suggestions for sprint events

5:19 - Indiana Sprint Week winner predictions and championship updates

6:41 - Fuel tank safety concerns and race regulations debate

7:53 - Engineering considerations for fuel capacity and safety measures

9:55 - High Limit series points standings and contenders

13:22 - Upcoming North/South 100 race details and purse records

15:41 - Predictions for the Knoxville 360 Nationals and Knoxville Nationals

17:42 - Notable drivers and their chances at Knoxville

21:37 - Overviews of key favorites and race favorites for Knoxville

23:54 - Expectations for the Knoxville Nationals and predictions

35:24 - Recent race results including Indiana Sprint Week and regional events

44:48 - Upcoming race schedules and personal plans for fans and racers

45:11 - Closing remarks and encouragement to support local racing

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Episode 88: Macri reigns supreme, PDC & Indiana Sprint Week are here!

Josh and EJ recap a massive week of sprint car racing, starting with the Kings Royal at Eldora and rolling into Indiana Sprint Week. They break down the track conditions, the impact of rain, the Joker’s Jackpot, Bryce Lucius’ emotional Brad Doty Classic win, and Anthony Macri’s back-to-back Kings Royal victories.

In this episode:

Kings Royal recap and Eldora track conditions

Joker’s Jackpot, Kyle Larson’s win, and Cole Macedo’s crash

Safety talk: open reds, fuel tanks, and sprint car starters

Format debate for the Kings Royal

Ryan Timms’ Knoxville momentum

Indiana Sprint Week preview and championship picks

Weekly race results and upcoming events

Highlights:

Anthony Macri repeats as Kings Royal Champion

Bryce Lucius gets a huge crowd-pleasing win at Attica

David Gravel’s week falls short of expectations

Garret Williamson and Gio Scelzi impressed all week

Bobby Pierce and Chase Dietz headline the weekend previews

Upcoming races discussed:

Indiana Sprint Week, Prairie Dirt Classic, Bob Weikert Memorial, and more across Ohio, Indiana, and Pennsylvania.

Timestamps:

0:00 — Intro / episode setup

1:55 — Kings Royal recap starts

5:55 — Joker’s Jackpot / viewership talk

9:00 — Fuel tanks and starters discussion

13:51 — Kings Royal format debate

18:14 — Anthony Macri wins the King’s Royal

24:10 — Indiana Sprint Week preview

26:54 — Race recap and results

31:51 — Racing to come / upcoming schedule

34:28 — Prairie Dirt Classic picks

36:06 — Bob Weikert Memorial preview

39:13 — Social shoutouts / wrap-up

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Dirt Court Jesters Podcast: King's Royal RoundtableJoin Josh, EJ, Sprint Car Driver, Luke Griffith, and Photographer, Dan McFarland with SprintFun Photography as we dive into the storied history, memorable moments, and the excitement surrounding the King's Royal at Eldora Speedway. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to dirt racing, get ready for insights, race predictions, and tips to experience this iconic event to the fullest.Main Topics Covered:Personal first experiences at the King's Royal and Eldora SpeedwayMost memorable races and race moments over the yearsMust-do activities and tips for attending the event, including camping and track accessFormat and rules of the King's Royal, including qualifying and race strategiesFavorites and dark horses for this year's race, including driver perspectivesThe impact of broadcasting, streaming, and fan engagement on racing culturePredictions for the winner, high payouts, and the special atmosphere of four-wide racingEvent schedule overview, including other major races during King's Royal weekUnique race features like the drone show, infield access, and pre-race festivitiesPersonal plans from our panelists for race week, including seating, camping, and photography tipsTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the King's Royal and its significance01:26 - First experiences at Eldora and the King's Royal02:42 - Memorable moments from past races05:50 - Evolution of the race format from a one-night event to a week-long spectacle06:22 - Most unforgettable King's Royal moments08:07 - Personal camping and experience tips at Eldora09:02 - Race day rituals and strategies11:33 - Must-do activities including camping and exploring Eldora13:34 - Merchandise, food, and viewing tips for attendees16:07 - Infield and trackside experiences you can't miss17:28 - Impact of race formats on racing excitement21:37 - Announcing the race week schedule and the importance of supporting local and regional drivers22:35 - The significance of events like the Brad Doty Classic and their impact27:34 - The significance of the favorite drivers and potential winners30:54 - Fast facts about the upcoming races and event predictions36:20 - The quick and intense format of the Joker's Jackpot41:06 - Discussion on the event's format and its effects on competition44:43 - The drama and storylines driven by race format and qualifying50:45 - Top contenders and dark horses for Eldora and the King's Royal58:54 - Panel predictions on race winners and surprises65:28 - The electricity and atmosphere of the King's Royal and why it’s a must-see71:38 - Personal race week plans, seating, and photographic tips77:22 - Deep dive into potential dark horses and underdog stories83:55 - Long shot predictions and sleeper drivers to watch86:44 - The thrill of the four-wide extravaganza and its legendary status92:02 - The unseen excitement, fan moments, and the spectators’ perspective94:10 - Race week logistics and favorite spots around Eldora97:36 - Behind-the-scenes insights into panelists' schedules and plans99:13 - Final thoughts on the spectacle, the culture, and the community of Eldora's King's Royal

Episode 87: PA v OH Speedweek, reigning and defending, Pierce on fire In this episode:Bobby Pierce's dominance: 21 wins this year, over 370 career feature wins, and why he's considered one of the greatest.Recap of notable recent races, including Kevin Thomas Jr. and Anthony Macri's victories across various tracks.Tribute to Doug Clark, long-time Knoxville and Husets flagmanNew ownership of Portsmouth Raceway by the Jent family and upcoming races.The diverse schedule for the King’s Royal week at Eldora, including High Limit, Brad Doty Classic, and the $200,000 to win main event.Discussion on the risks and rewards of High Limit series’ new ventures into lesser-viewed areas.Wrapping up with race results from the BC 39, World of Outlaws, and several regional events across the country.Upcoming races and plans, plus a preview of the King's Royal Roundtable episode.Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome and episode overview00:34 - Dirt Racing History: Kokomo USAC Sprint Week 201601:00 - Bobby Pierce's record-breaking season overview01:55 - Comparing Bobby Pierce's career wins to Devin Moran02:23 - Bobby Pierce's crown jewels and accolades02:32 - Pierce's recent winning streak and dominance03:21 - Devin Moran's remarks on race attendance and Pierce's fire04:12 - Tribute to Doug Clark, Knoxville and Husets flagman04:33 - Portsmouth Raceway ownership update05:12 - Race schedule and travel plans for upcoming week06:53 - The risk-taking of the High Limit series in new markets08:53 - Emerson Axsom fined for altercation and driver conflicts11:23 - Anthony Macri’s continued success and Speedweek recap15:11 - Road to the King's Royal at Eldora Speedway16:34 - Excitement building for upcoming races and roundtables17:42 - Race recap: BC 39, World of Outlaws, regional races21:54 - Upcoming race schedule and personal plans28:22 - Weekend outlook and race attendance intentions29:01 - Preparing for the King's Royal trip and final thoughts30:02 - Outro and upcoming special content, stay tuned!

Dirt Court Jesters Podcast Presents: Behind Barrs-Episode 3Discover the trials and triumphs of a family deeply rooted in grass roots racing, from crashes to setbacks to building better setups. This episode shares insights into small family owned racing challenges, technical problem-solving, and the meaning of legacy on the dirt track.In this episode:

The impact of a major crash and how it reshaped their approach

Troubleshooting car problems from torsion bars to gas cap myths

The importance of notes, testing, and adaptability on race day

The emotional and family connections tied to Eldora Speedway

Reflection on racing's legacy within the family history

Timestamps:

00:00 - The aftermath of a big crash and personal reflections

00:18 - Family values and the importance of racing together

00:40 - Gratitude for family support and partnership in racing

00:59 - High expectations after last season’s setbacks

01:25 - Racing at Lawrenceburg and driver preferences

01:53 - Car setup challenges and troubleshooting

02:15 - Diagnosing torsion bar issues and initial frustrations

02:46 - Upgrading components and troubleshooting strategies

03:26 - Motor swaps and dyno testing insights

04:05 - The gas cap myth and its surprising fix

04:34 - Race night at Lincoln Park and learning experiences

05:02 - Developing a new, reliable motor and setup

05:30 - Handling track conditions and strategic adjustments at Limaland

05:57 - Pushing the limits and driver development

06:28 - The emotional side of racing frustrations and family support

06:57 - Balancing family, fun, and the challenges of racing

07:27 - Reflection on progress and ongoing tuning efforts

07:56 - Building a better slick track package

08:09 - Family legacy at Eldora Speedway

08:41 - The rich history of racing within the family

09:11 - The significance of Eldora and family tradition

09:41 - The passion and pride rooted in racing heritage#RacingLife#FamilyFirst#ResilienceOnTrack#RaceDay#BehindTheWheel#MotorsportFamily#RacingCommunity#SpeedAndFamily#TrackToTriumph#RacingPassion

Episode 86: Speedweek bangs, the home team wins, WoO + HL

In this episode:

Recap of Buddy Kofoid's first All-Star win at Wayne County (0:31)

Highlights from Ohio Sprint SpeedWeek including wins at Attica, Sharon, and Wayne County (1:09)

The impact of weather on racing at Eldora and Wainsfield (2:10)

Kaleb Henry’s impressive comeback victory at Wayne County (3:35)

Track sales updates: Humboldt Speedway, Red Dirt Raceway, and others facing uncertain futures (10:50)

The upcoming Southern Raceway event with World of Outlaws Late Models (14:06)

Ideas for World of Outlaws and High Limit collaboration during King’s Royal Week (14:41)

Discussion on the differences between Super Dirt Cup and High Bank Nationals (22:32)

Preview of 2026 Pennsylvania Sprint Car SpeedWeek – record purse and schedule (24:21)

Focus on driver performances: Brent Marks’ hot streak, Rico Abreu’s struggles, and Brad Sweet’s big paycheck (17:03, 18:58, 19:46)

The significance of big checks for drivers like David Gravel, showcasing the sport’s growth and challenges (49:09)

Race results roundup from USAC, USMTS, and various regional series (32:54 onward)

Personal plans and upcoming trips to King’s Royal and other events (62:28)

Timestamp Highlights:
(00:31) Ohio Sprint SpeedWeek overview: memorable moments & wins
(1:09) SpeedWeek rankings and standout performances
(2:10) Weather interruptions at Eldora & Waynesfield
(3:35) Kaleb Henry’s remarkable late pass at Wayne County
(10:50) Track sales: Humboldt, Red Dirt Raceway & more
(14:41) Ideas for World of Outlaws and High Limit collaborative series events during King’s Royal
(22:32) Comparing Super Dirt Cup & High Bank Nationals
(24:21) Announcing record-breaking Pennsylvania SpeedWeek
(17:03) Brent Marks' recent wins & momentum
(18:58) Rico Abreu’s recent tough weekends
(20:42) Race results from Super Dirt Cup, High Bank Nationals & more
(49:09) Big checks & purse implications in dirt racing wins