The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word RACERS
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "sprinters" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case sprinters = racers.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does RACERS mean?
RACERS noun- Someone who takes part in a race.
- A racehorse.
- An animal known for its fast speed, or suitable for racing; applied especially to a number of North American snakes, certain kinds of lake trout, etc.
- A vehicle or other device used for racing.
- Any of several genera of colubrid snakes.
- A video game involving racing of any kind.