Mayhem has long been one of New Zealand’s most competitive offshore racers, and this year’s result reinforces her reputation for tenacity and teamwork. After starting at 1000 hrs yesterday (Friday 24 October), the crew quickly joined the lead pack alongside Wired, Callisto, and Lucky. By the time the fleet reached Flat Rock at 1304 hrs and Sail Rock at 1711 hrs, Mayhem had already moved into podium contention.
As night fell off the Northland coast, the battle for third intensified. Mayhem and Wired traded positions through the evening, their speeds matching at 6.4 knots in the softening breeze. Later, as the wind filled back in near Cape Brett, Mayhem surged forward again, rounding the Cape at 5:10 a.m. before pushing on to Russell.
It was a test of endurance and patience for a yacht capable of much higher speeds, with the team staying focused through long, quiet stretches of light wind. Yet, in true Mayhem style, they finished strong — determined, competitive, and smiling as they reached the dock in Russell.
