Crossword Genius

Could a raw beginner at cards possibly win them? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

races

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'could a raw beginner' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'cards possibly win them?' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite understand how this works, but
'cards' could be 'aces' (ace is a kind of card) and 'aces' is found within the answer.
A single letter 'r' remains which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'at' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for races that I've seen before include "Sprint and marathon?" , "Operates at excessive speed" , "Speed contests for horses, cars etc" , "Rushes" , "Events at Epsom or Ascot?" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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