Crossword Genius

Strange athlete, one breaking the law with spirit? (3,6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rum-runner

'one breaking the law with spirit?' is the definition.
(historic term for an alcohol smuggler)

'strange athlete' is the wordplay.
'strange' becomes 'rum' (I've seen this before).
'athlete' becomes 'runner' (runner is a kind of athlete).
'rum'+'runner'='RUM-RUNNER'

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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