Dirt Court Jesters Podcast: Behind the rock screen w/ Jakeb Boxell

Jakeb Boxell with 4 Kings Racing and Matt Westfall Racing on his season and his huge win Eldora Speedway with the USAC Racing National Midgets at the 4 Crown Nationals! Behind the Rock Screen with Jakeb JB Boxell is out NOW!

Josh welcomes Jacob Boxell, a USAC National Midget for 4 Kings Racing and non-wing 410 driver for Matt Westfall Racing, to discuss his first USAC National Midget victory at Eldora’s 4 Crown Nationals. JB reflects on the breakthrough win, how racing multiple cars has shaped his driving, and the team and plans behind his rapid rise.

Timestamps

00:00 - Boxell’s first USAC National Midget win at the 4 Crown

02:45 - The meaning of winning in the No. 54 at Eldora

05:07 - Why D2 laps only partly prepare drivers for the 4 Crown

06:25 - Putting sprint car trouble behind him

07:15 - How 410 sprint car seat time has improved his driving

09:30 - Racing 30 to 35 events and finding a sprint car breakthrough

10:44 - A second-place return to the USAC Midwest Thunder Midgets

11:59 - The people and teamwork behind 4 Kings Racing and Matt Westfall Racing

14:39 - The California swing and plans for the end of the season

15:34 - Australia, the Chili Bowl, and 2027 goals

17:06 - Taking time to appreciate a fast-moving career

Episode 94: A Four Crown for Four Kings and the National Open

Josh and EJ recap a packed Four Crown Nationals weekend at Eldora Speedway, review championship battles across several dirt racing divisions, and preview the $75,000-to-win National Open at Williams Grove Speedway. The episode also includes a full rundown of recent race winners and the weekend schedule across the country.

In this episode:

Josh and EJ break down the Four Crown Nationals at Eldora, including Ryan Timms' first Eldora win, KTJ's Thursday USAC National Midget victory, Jacob Boxell's first USAC National Midget win, and Daison Pursley's Silver Crown triumph.

Four Kings Racing enjoyed a major weekend, with Matt Westfall reaching the Silver Crown podium and multiple first-time Eldora winners emerging across the event.

Jamie Myers earned his third OVSCA championship, tying Hall of Famer Danny Smith, while Trinity Ramseyer captured rookie of the year honors.

Travis Ahrens won the 2026 IRA championship, with Paul Nienheiser named IRA rookie of the year.

Brent Marks and Chase Briscoe Racing secured the $25,000 Roto-Rooter Midweek Series title, setting up a potential High Limit championship run in 2027.

Championship battles are coming down to the final races in the All-Star Circuit of Champions and USAC Midwest Thunder Midgets. Kaleb Henry leads Cale Thomas by 32 points, while Tyler Nelson leads Matt Lux and Bryce Massingill in the midget standings.

The National Open returns to Williams Grove Speedway on October 2-3, featuring a $75,000 winner's purse and a showdown between World of Outlaws drivers, High Limit regulars, and the Pennsylvania Posse.

Josh and EJ both pick the same driver to win the National Open. EJ's local pick is the No. 39, while Josh selects Chase Dietz.

The hosts recap winners from Eldora, Williams Grove, Brownstown, Deer Creek, I-55, Skyline, Wayne County, Ventura, and numerous other tracks.

The weekend schedule includes the National Open, the All-Star finale at Michael's Mercer Raceway, the USAC Midwest Thunder Midget finale at Montpelier, Toledo Speedway's USAC Silver Crown finale, and the Pittsburgher 100.

Timestamps

00:00 - Episode 94 introduction and Dirt Racing History

00:50 - Four Crown Nationals highlights from Eldora Speedway

02:48 - Track conditions, car counts, and why the Four Crown is underrated

04:22 - OVSCA, IRA, and rookie-of-the-year championship results

04:57 - Brent Marks and Chase Briscoe Racing win the High Limit midweek title

06:22 - 2026 USRA Nationals schedule at Lucas Oil Speedway

07:52 - All-Star championship battle between Kaleb Henry and Cale Thomas

10:17 - USAC Midwest Thunder Midget championship comes down to the finale

13:54 - National Open history, purse, contenders, and Pennsylvania Posse competition

15:37 - Josh and EJ reveal their National Open picks

19:23 - Race recap

20:48 - Eldora Four Crown preliminary-night winners

21:15 - Friday night results from Bakersfield, Brownstown, Circle City, and Deer Creek

22:38 - Four Crown finale results and Ryan Timms' Eldora breakthrough

23:24 - IRA championship weekend and Skyline Speedway results

25:06 - Wayne County, Williams Grove, and Jackson 100 results

26:30 - Deer Creek finale and Jacob Boxell's first USAC National midget win

27:33 - Silver Crown, King of the Arch, Montpelier, and Plymouth results

29:56 - Ventura, Wayne County, and Kokomo race results

30:50 - Upcoming Wednesday and Friday racing schedule

32:09 - Saturday schedule featuring the National Open and multiple season finales

33:52 - Sunday enduro at Goods Raceway and the final weekend preview

34:45 - EJ's track plans, including Goods, Hilltop, and Toledo

35:58 - Eldora weekend reflections and behind-the-scenes content

37:03 - Closing thoughts

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Episode 93: Championships, records crowds, & 4 Crown Nationals

Josh and EJ cover recent dirt racing championships, a record-setting World 100 crowd, driver and safety developments, and the upcoming Four Crown Nationals at Eldora Speedway. They also recap major results from across the country and make their picks for the Four Crown divisions.

In this episode:

Josh and EJ discuss the latest dirt racing news and look ahead to the Four Crown Nationals at Eldora Speedway. The conversation covers championship results, a record-setting World 100 crowd, driver safety, major driver changes and a wide-ranging recap of recent races.

A major theme is the importance of safety and driver input. Josh and EJ discuss the Belleville cancellation and the growing role of the National Track Safety Association, while also considering a new sprint car design intended to reduce spinal compression.

The hosts celebrate Eldora’s recognition in the American Late Model Iron Man Series Hall of Fame and reflect on the World 100’s continued popularity, with the event drawing another record crowd.

The Four Crown Nationals preview looks back at the event’s history, including Steve Kinser’s early success and Jack Hewitt’s unique sweep of all four divisions in 1998. Josh and EJ share their picks for this year’s races, which feature four championship divisions and $15,000-to-win features on Saturday.

The episode also covers Nick Hoffman’s move to Spire Motorsports for 2027, Brady Bacon and Kerry Madsen’s late-season driver changes, and race results from across the country.

Timestamps

00:02 Welcome and episode preview

00:26 This week in dirt racing history

00:48 Eldora Speedway enters the ALMS Hall of Fame

01:56 Max Stambaugh championship

02:56 Driver input and track safety

05:32 Nick Hoffman’s move to Spire Motorsports

07:28 Favorite World 100 paint schemes

09:06 Attica track champions and tire testing

10:46 Record World 100 crowd

12:48 Horsepower Hydration and Victory Fuel

13:52 Jett Barnes’ early success

14:37 Cap Henry’s championships and season stats

16:25 Cap Henry vs. Cale Thomas

18:00 Brady Bacon and Kerry Madsen driver changes

20:25 Four Crown Nationals history and weekend preview

24:10 Four Crown predictions

29:15 Race recap begins

30:55 New sprint car design and driver safety

32:43 Friday race results

35:25 Saturday race results

39:09 Dennis Roth Classic and Sheldon Haudenschild discussion

43:04 Sunday results and upcoming races

48:47 Wrap-up and Four Crown Nationals plans

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Episode 92: No More, The World 100, and Never Forget

Josh and EJ cover the end of Johnny Gibson's 31-year, 2,465-race announcing streak, major driver and track news, and a packed weekend of dirt racing led by Eldora's World 100. They also recap results from across the country and reflect on the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001.

Timestamps

00:00 - Episode 92 opens with the World 100 and a September 11 remembrance

00:28 - John Ivey wins the 2004 All-Star race at Fremont Speedway

00:48 - Johnny Gibson's 31-year, 2,465-race streak comes to an end

02:25 - Ryan Timms' championship season and national-series possibilities

04:49 - Would Timms choose World of Outlaws or High Limit?

06:44 - Kyle Moore suspended by Wayne County Speedway

10:03 - Owen Larson's wild restricted micro battle

11:58 - Portsmouth announces a $50,000 super late model show

13:16 - Belleville High Banks 30 canceled over safety concerns

16:56 - High Limit's proposed open tire rule for 2027

19:54 - World 100 format, schedule, and $100,000-to-win finale

21:00 - Josh picks Devin Moran; EJ picks Bobby Pierce

22:54 - A packed weekend of major races across the region

24:08 - Trey Jacobs wins the Pete Jacobs Memorial

25:12 - Hayden Reinbold breaks a 27-year midget track record

26:31 - Remembering September 11, 2001

27:20 - Race recap begins with High Limit, World of Outlaws, and regional results

29:08 - Tyler Erb wins at Portsmouth; EJ shares his track experience

32:52 - Sam Hafertepe Jr. leads Matt Covington by 22 ASCS points

35:19 - Mansfield controversy and reckless post-race driving

37:41 - Tyler Erb wins again ahead of the World 100

38:53 - Rico Abreu wins the Skagit Nationals finale

41:30 - Eldora's BaltesClassic sets up World 100 week

43:39 - Emerson Axsom earns his first World of Outlaws win

45:36 - Tight IRA points battle heading into the season finale

46:29 - Trey Jacobs completes the emotional Pete Jacobs Memorial victory

47:28 - Racing to come: World 100 week and major regional events

49:24 - World 100 finale and AFCS championship outlook

52:05 - Final thoughts on September 11 and the coming weekend

52:49 - EJ discusses possible track plans

53:45 - Closing remarks and a final Sheldon Haudenschild shoutout

Featured picks

Josh: Devin Moran to win the World 100

EJ: Bobby Pierce to win the World 100

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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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