Crossword Genius

Try new driver — fine at first for this game? (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

golf

'this game?' is the definition.
(golf is an example)

'try new driver fine at first' is the wordplay.
'try' becomes 'go' (both can mean an attempt).
'new driver' becomes 'l' (learner drivers have L-plates on their cars).
'at first' suggests taking the first letters.
The initial letter of 'fine' is 'f'.
'go'+'l'+'f'='GOLF'

'for' is the link.

(Other definitions for golf that I've seen before include "Game played at Troon" , "Tee-to-hole sport" , "Comms code for G" , "Sport; VW car" , "Game; G (radio comms.)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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