Reordered mini, alternating with sailor, to drive (8)

I believe the answer is:

ambition

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'to drive' is the definition.
(ambition is a kind of drive)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for ambition that I've seen before include "Strong desire to achieve fameor fortune" , "I'm in boat (anag.)" , "Drive to succeed" , "Desire to succeed in life" , "Urge to better oneself" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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