The Southeast Gassers Association will open its 2026 championship season April 10-11 at Shadyside Dragway, signaling the return of one of drag racing’s most traditional formats. The event, titled The First Drag Race presented by Robbins Repairables, begins a 10-race schedule built around nostalgia-style competition.
The series enters the new season emphasizing its roots, with a renewed focus on period-correct racing and presentation. That direction continues to define SEGA’s position as a leading nostalgia gasser organization in the sport.
Shadyside Dragway serves as both the opening and closing venue for the 2026 season, making it the only track to host two events. The Shelby, North Carolina facility remains a cornerstone for competitors and fans who view it as a connection to drag racing’s formative years.
For many teams, Shadyside functions as a home track, while spectators are drawn to its throwback atmosphere. The venue’s layout and presentation reinforce the series’ mission to recreate the era when gassers defined grassroots drag racing.
Competition will feature A/Gas, B/Gas, C/Gas, and Super Stock championship categories, with A/FX and H/Gas appearing as exhibition classes. Nearly all reigning champions return to defend titles, including Chase Howard (A/Gas), Ken Rainwater (B/Gas), Jerren Perdue (C/Gas), and Jerry Dean (Super Stock).
Rainwater’s move from B/Gas into A/Gas reshapes the competitive balance at the top level. His transition adds depth to a category already expected to see increased participation.
The A/Gas field also welcomes the return of Barry Adler in the Iron Eagle Corvette and Leslie Horne in the Chick Magnet Chevrolet following off-season repairs. Their return introduces additional storylines in a class that continues to grow in both size and competitiveness.
Daniel Haynes, the 2024 B/Gas champion, re-enters B/Gas competition after limited starts in 2025. His presence adds another experienced contender to a class seeking stability after fluctuating participation last season.
C/Gas could see a competitive shift as reports indicate a former A/Gas entry may be reconfigured for the class. In Super Stock, Jerry Dean begins his title defense with the same question facing the field — who can challenge his consistency.
The event schedule opens Friday with a SEGA-only test session beginning at 5 p.m. Eastern. Gates open at 3 p.m., followed by Saturday qualifying at 1 p.m. and eliminations later in the day.
Beyond competition, SEGA continues to expand its business partnerships entering 2026. The organization announced Grier Roofing, LLC, as its Official Roofing Provider in a deal that also includes livestream support.
Grier Roofing, based in Wellford, South Carolina, brings a track record of regional recognition, including multiple “Best of the Upstate” and “Best of Spartanburg” honors. The company services areas across South Carolina, North Carolina, and parts of Georgia.
