Crossword Genius

Sage, second one to take lead in race (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

irish

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

'race' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for irish that I've seen before include "of European country" , "Passion" , "Hibernian -- breed of 4" , "From Dublin maybe" , "Native to the Emerald Isle" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.