Its heavy but will take first place (4)
I believe the answer is:
lead
'first place' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for lead that I've seen before include "spearhead" , "Church windows include this" , "Accompany to show the way" , "Chemical element, symbol Pb" , "Take a position in front" .)