Two of New Zealand's biggest names in modern-day motorsport, Greg Murphy and Paul Radisich, are in the line-up for next years George Begg Festival.

The inaugural retro motorsport event, celebrating Drummond farmer-turned-engineer-turned-racecar constructor who built a series of vehicles that bested some of the biggest marques in the world, will be held at Teretonga Park from 30 March – 2 April, 2023.

The man behind the festival concept, Invercargill businessman and motorsport enthusiast Scott O’Donnell, says attracting the duo is huge news for those keen on attending the festival.

"It really takes things up a notch."

"Murph and Radisich are among the best drivers in New Zealand motorsport. To attract drivers of their calibre to the George Begg Festival is a real vote of confidence in the long-term vision we have for the event, which is to create a retro motorsport event that appeals not just to the die-hard followers but to the general public as well," O'Donnell said.

"For all of our competitors, the chance to square up against marquee names like Greg Murphy and Paul Radisich is huge; for our guests, they can be confident that the on-track entertainment will be top-class and full of action, adrenaline and excitement. Roll on March 2023."

Radisich, winner of two Touring Car World Cups and whos career has spanned almost three decades, said he was eager to head to Invercargill for the George Begg Festival.

"I'm honoured to be invited to drive at the George Begg Festival, not only to pay tribute to one of New Zealand's consummate motorsport identities, but also to be reunited with my World Cup-winning Ford Mondeo and my NZGP-winning Ford Ralt RT4, assiduously rebuilt and prepared by Nigel Barclay specifically for this incredible event. The George Begg Festival will undoubtedly be a highlight on the New Zealand motorsport and social calendar."

Four time Bathurst 1000 winner Greg Murphy said the event will bring him a solid dose of nostalgia.

"Events like the George Begg Festival are much more my pace these days, completely stress-free and enjoyable. I love the history of the sport and it never ceases to amaze me the amount of beautiful machines we have here in New Zealand, and the amount of like-minded people there are," he said.

"Teretonga was the track I got my first car racing podium at and is still a wonderful piece of asphalt to drive on. Celebrating a pioneer of the sport and driving some special cars is something I wouldn’t want to miss. I feel very privileged to be a part of this event."

Spectators are encouraged to dress up in vintage fashion for the three day festival, which will not only include racing but also a Studio 54-inspired party at Transport World, and a car rally throughout Southland in support of Kiwi charity Cure Kids..

The George Begg Festival is hosted by TW Events & Incentives and Transport World.