George Begg has arrived
The legend George Begg has arrived. Invercargill’s got a thing with wheels. And it’s not hard to see why our city has become a petrolhead’s paradise. Bill Richardson Transport World is the largest private automotive museum of its type in the world, boasting more than 300 vintage vehicles. Meanwhile, Classic Motorcycle Mecca is the leading motorcycle collection in the Southern Hemisphere. It is also home to over 300 impressive vintage motorcycles. Together, these two collections are some of the most popular visitor attractions in Invercargill.
George Begg at Classic Motorcycle Mecca
Another jewel has been added to the crown. George Begg is a homegrown hero in the vein of Burt Munro and Bill Richardson. And now, a brand-new exhibit at Classic Motorcycle Mecca pays tribute to the famed automotive engineer. It also pays homage to a golden age in Kiwi motorsport history.
In the 1960s and 70s, Begg built 18 race vehicles that challenged – and beat – some of the most celebrated marques in the world.
The George Begg exhibit officially opens on 13 February. Housed in a whopping 1600m2, custom-built space at Classic Motorcycle Mecca, the Begg exhibit includes a display of race vehicles built in ‘George’s Toyshop’. Visitors can discover memorabilia from his competitive motorcycling days (he raced on the famed Isle of Man) including his AJS race bike and more. Guests can purchase tickets to the grand opening, to be attended by Begg’s family, former drivers, contemporaries and other guests. Click here to find out more.
George Begg Classic Speedfest
The George Begg exhibit is the centrepiece of a brand-new city-wide homage to the man himself. Together, Transport World and the Southland Sports Car Club will present the first-ever George Begg Classic Speedfest at Teretonga Park. And the southernmost FIA-recognised circuit in the world will be the epicentre of the action this weekend. On 15 and 16 February, the celebration of retro racing promises plenty of action on and off the track.
Competitors and spectators alike are encouraged to dust off their best vintage threads and don costumes matching the era of the car they’re supporting. Long-term, the vision for the event is to be the Southland version of the Goodwood festival in Sussex, England. Organisers hope to introduce live entertainment, vintage fashion, and more in the future.
So, if you want to be part of history in the making, click here to find out more about George Begg and grab your tickets today. Tickets are limited – don’t miss out!
Posted in: Attractions, What's On
Tags: Bill Richardson Transport World, Classic Motorcycle Mecca, George Begg, Invercargill events, Invercargill things to do, Invercargill visitor attractions, things to do in Invercargill
