The Southeast Gassers Association is expanding its championship categories in 2025 to include the A/Factory Experimental (A/FX) category, alongside its existing staple Gasser classes. This addition allows early Funny Cars, a fan favorite, to compete for a championship within the popular nostalgia drag racing series.

A/Factory Experimental cars, which evolved into the Funny Cars known today, have been a part of SEGA since its inception. Many notable names and vehicles in A/FX have historical connections to the early days of drag racing, specifically the mid-1960s. Cousins Allen and Rocky Platt continue the family legacy of pioneers Hubert and Houston Platt.

“Keep dad’s name [Houston Platt] and my uncle’s name [Hubert Platt] alive – old school drag racing alive,” said Rocky Platt, the Operations Director for SEGA. The Dixie Twister, a 1965 Chevy Nova fastback, serves as a replica of Houston Platt’s original vehicle while Allen Platt races the Georgia Shaker, a 1965 Ford Falcon previously campaigned by Hubert Platt.

Interest in A/FX style cars remains strong among the gasser community.

“I like the early Funny Car crazy stuff,” said Tod Wimberly, who has owned his 1965 Ford Falcon known as Southern Comfort for multiple exhibition passes. Another notable car is the 1964 Plymouth Belvedere called Moonshot II, driven by Robbie Walden, which has appeared frequently in exhibitions.

New builds are also on the horizon, including Gordon Rundle’s HEMI-powered 1965 Dodge Coronet named Colossus. For the upcoming season, five to six A/FX cars are expected to compete, with rumors suggesting the potential for over eight entries by 2026.

SEGA Race Director Randy Edmonds believes it is time to officially recognize the A/FX category within the nostalgia movement. He hopes this initiative will inspire more builds and participation. The rules will require period-correct cars using mechanical injection with methanol and racing on nine-inch tires.