A native Kentuckian, Ercel was born and raised on Dixiana Farm, where his father served as farm manager. Ercel has spent his entire life in the Thoroughbred industry as an owner, breeder, trainer, broadcaster, and journalist.

A familiar and respected voice in the Thoroughbred industry, Ercel provides daily race results on Post Time, as well as news, commentary, and a few good stories on Horse Tales.

Ercel is a recipient of the Charles W. Englehard Award for excellence in  broadcasting, an annual award presented by the Kentucky Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association.

Ercel and his wife, Jackie Ellis, own a farm in Bourbon County. In addition to broadcasting and farming, Ercel is the official clocker at The Thoroughbred Center, a training facility owned by the Keeneland Association. Jackie, an attorney, has trained thoroughbreds and is an avid foxhunter.