Crossword Genius

The late converted into the quick? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

athlete

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'the quick?' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot see how they can define each other.

'the late converted' is the wordplay.
'converted' indicates an anagram.
'the'+'late'='thelate'
'thelate' is an anagram of 'ATHLETE'.

'into' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for athlete that I've seen before include "Eg long jumper" , "Sportsman in physical contests" , "One who engages in physical sports" , "Person fit for physical sports" , "Person trained to compete in sports" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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