Mayhem claims third in the 2025 PIC Coastal Classic

Russell, Bay of Islands — Saturday 25 October 2025

After more than 20 hours at sea, Mayhem has secured third place on line honours in the 2025 PIC Coastal Classic, finishing just 19 minutes and 37 seconds behind second-place Callisto. The 15.8-metre TP52, co-skippered by Harry Dodson and Tony Bosnyak, crossed the line at 06:33 a.m., completing the 119-nautical-mile course from Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour to Russell in 20 hours and 33 minutes.

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.

For live tracking, photos, and overnight updates, visit www.coastalclassic.co.nz.