Crossword Genius

Runner beginning to run, one runs! (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

racer

'runner' is the definition.
(thesaurus)

'beginning to run one runs' is the wordplay.
'beginning to' indicates taking the first letters.
'one' becomes 'ace' ('ace' can be a synonym of 'one').
'runs' becomes 'r' (cricket abbreviation).
The initial letter of 'run' is 'r'.
'r'+'ace'+'r'='RACER'

(Other definitions for racer that I've seen before include "Fast driver" , "sportsman" , "Fast competitive car or animal" , "Athlete" , "One car" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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