Auckland, NZ – The Three Kings Offshore Yacht Race, a true test of mettle and machinery, is barely underway, yet already a familiar name is etching itself onto the provisional leaderboard. Steve Mair’s Shaw 12, *Clockwork*, has asserted a commanding early lead, clocking an impressive performance just over four hours after the fleet departed the familiar confines of the Hauraki Gulf.

For those of us who’ve seen countless starts from this iconic stretch of water, the initial sprint is often a deceptive indicator. However, *Clockwork*'s early pace suggests a well-drilled crew and an optimized platform, a testament to Mair's meticulous preparation. The Shaw 12, known for its potent blend of speed and seaworthiness, appears to be living up to its reputation in these opening stages.

While the full tactical picture will only emerge as the fleet stretches out towards the Three Kings Islands, this initial burst from *Clockwork* will undoubtedly send ripples through the competitive ranks. Offshore racing, particularly in the fickle waters off New Zealand, is a marathon, not a sprint. Yet, establishing an early psychological and physical advantage can be crucial. The coming hours will reveal whether *Clockwork* can sustain this blistering tempo and navigate the complex wind and sea states that define this challenging offshore classic. Competitors will be watching closely, adjusting their own strategies as the race unfolds.