Wilson Brothers Continue Family’s Motorsports Legacy At Mercer County Fair
April Ellis
Herald Staff
For Dustin Wilson and his brothers, Josh “Red” Wilson and Joe Wilson Jr., the roar of engines and the smell of burning rubber at the Mercer County Fair aren’t just part of the show–they’re part of a family legacy. What began as a passion shared with their late father, “Big Joe” Wilson Sr., has grown into a heartfelt mission: to carry on the motorsports events he loved so much.
“My dad loved anything with an engine,” Dustin said. “From dirt bikes to truck pulling, he had a real passion–not just for motorsports but for people. He loved planning, competing, and working with others.”
“Big Joe” Wilson pictured holding his grandson Kaden after winning a nearly seven-foot tall trophy at a truck pull.
Growing up, the brothers fondly remember watching their dad work side by side with close friends to pull off thrilling events. “Seeing them work together, all donating their time to create something spectacular, those are memories that stick with you,” said Dustin. For Joe Jr., it was the thrill of being on the track with his dad. “My favorite memories are the years that we both competed in the same class with our two hot stock small-block pulling trucks. Lots of late nights working on the trucks together,” said Joe.
A few years before his father’s passing, Dustin joined the Mercer County Fair Board–encouraged by his dad. That step gave him a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run motorsports events. After their father passed, the Wilson brothers made it their mission to keep the tradition alive. Now, they–alongside other dedicated families like the Ellises and Kellers–devote countless hours to organizing the motorsports lineup each year.
“It takes a lot,” Dustin said. “From deciding which events to hold, making rules for different classes, getting sponsors, promoting, organizing volunteers and making sure everything runs safely–it’s a big operation. But we all work together, and that’s what makes it happen.”
Over the years, the events have evolved, especially after the loss of key figures like their father and his friend Ricky Keller. But the commitment to improving and growing the experience has remained strong.
“We take great pride in trying to make every event better than the last,” Dustin said. “You learn something new every time.”
And nothing compares to the feeling when the engines fire up and the stands start to fill.
