They're above awarding a runner points (5)

I believe the answer is:

skies

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'they're above awarding a' is the definition.
The definition suggests an adverb but the answer is not.

'runner points' is the wordplay.
'runner' becomes 'ski' (something which 'runs', ie moves quickly on snow).
'points' becomes 'es' (two compass points).
'ski'+'es'='SKIES'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for skies that I've seen before include "Hits high in the air" , "Heavens" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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