The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word EPEES
E
P
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S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "We’re engaged in contests on piste?" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case we’re engaged in contests on piste? = epees.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 EPEES mean?
EPEES noun- A sharp-pointed dueling sword with a bell-shaped guard, used (with the end blunted) in sport fencing.