Crossword Genius

Oscar training, sailor running (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

operating

'running' is the definition.
('operate' can be a synonym of 'run')

'oscar training sailor' is the wordplay.
'oscar' becomes 'o' (phonetic alphabet: alpha, bravo, charlie etc.).
'training' becomes 'pe'.
'sailor' becomes 'rating' (British term for a naval enlisted man).
'o'+'pe'+'rating'='OPERATING'

(Other definitions for operating that I've seen before include "Directing or controlling, machinery say" , "Performing surgery" , "(Of machine) running" , "Cutting" , "Active" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app