Dirt Court Jesters Podcast

Josh with the Dirt Court Jesters

All roads take us to the Kings Royal! Talking dirt racing nationally, and just as importantly right here in the Ohio Valley! I hope you're ready to get dirty! Josh with the Dirt Court Jesters is your tour guide. Follow the Dirt Court Jesters on X and Youtube @dirtcourtjester

  1. Sep 8

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

    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 You can check out all episodes on YouTube, Spotify, Apple, and iHeartRadio YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@dirtcourtjester Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7t5GAutGpqaglvFPdAf56V?si=563c40fb97f94c3f Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dirt-court-jesters-podcast/id1746620904 iHeartRadio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-dirt-court-jesters-podcast-159583714 Like, follow, share, and subscribe on Facebook, X, YouTube, and Spotify for more Dirt Court Jesters coverage!

    Episode 92: No Moore, The World 100, and Never Forget
  2. Sep 1

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

    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 Like, follow, share, and subscribe on Facebook, X, YouTube, and Spotify for more Dirt Court Jesters coverage! You can check out all episodes on YouTube, Spotify, Apple, and iHeartRadio YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@dirtcourtjester Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7t5GAutGpqaglvFPdAf56V?si=563c40fb97f94c3f Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dirt-court-jesters-podcast/id1746620904 iHeartRadio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-dirt-court-jesters-podcast-159583714

    Episode 91: Florence, mile tracks, & Labor Day weekend racing
  3. Aug 16

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

    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 Like, follow, share, and subscribe on Facebook, X, YouTube, and Spotify for more Dirt Court Jesters coverage! You can check out all episodes on YouTube, Spotify, Apple, and iHeartRadio YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@dirtcourtjester Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7t5GAutGpqaglvFPdAf56V?si=563c40fb97f94c3f Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dirt-court-jesters-podcast/id1746620904 iHeartRadio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-dirt-court-jesters-podcast-159583714

    Episode 90: Waynesfield, Torn Up Rides, and National Champion
  4. Aug 5

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

    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 Like, follow, share, and subscribe on Facebook, X, YouTube, and Spotify for more Dirt Court Jesters coverage!

    Episode 89: Indiana Sprint Week, North/South 100, & Knoxville Nationals
  5. Jul 21

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

    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 Like, follow, share, and subscribe for more Dirt Court Jesters coverage!

    Episode 88: Macri reigns supreme, PDC & Indiana Sprint Week are here!
  6. Jul 13 ·  Bonus

    Dirt Court Jesters Podcast: King's Royal Roundtable

    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

    Dirt Court Jesters Podcast: King's Royal Roundtable
  7. Jul 7

    Episode 87: PA v OH Speedweek, reigning and defending, Pierce on fire

    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!

    Episode 87: PA v OH Speedweek, reigning and defending, Pierce on fire
  8. Jul 5 ·  Bonus

    Dirt Court Jesters Podcast Presents: Behind Barrs-Episode 3

    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

    Dirt Court Jesters Podcast Presents: Behind Barrs-Episode 3

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

All roads take us to the Kings Royal! Talking dirt racing nationally, and just as importantly right here in the Ohio Valley! I hope you're ready to get dirty! Josh with the Dirt Court Jesters is your tour guide. Follow the Dirt Court Jesters on X and Youtube @dirtcourtjester

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