The Times - Cryptic - This puzzle was The Times Crossword Championship 2012 - 2nd Qualifying puzzle - April 18, 2012

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Clues Answers
After hours, embraced by editor in high spirits ELATED
Ahab and we lot adrift in his vessel? WHALEBOAT
Beginning to walk more quickly, determined to take in forested area STEPPINGOUT
Chess player beat one beginning to learn art of defence WHITEBELT
Climb Everest to improve social standing? (2,2,2,3,5) GOUPINTHEWORLD
Conflict with prison officer? Not half WAR
Found unwell after check? Possible reason CHILL
Friend wearing very large gems OPALS
From influential organisation, old copper's nicking head OCTOPUS
Furthest in wood set out in all directions TOTHEFOURWINDS
Holding dog with no lead ASSET
Hospital in French resort in ideal position NICHE
In workshop, American academic STUDIOUS
Jersey may become 7, some say, after end of holidays SWEATER
Little Katherine carried out an insect KATYDID
Clues Answers
Mountain having poorer definition — top can't be seen RAINIER
Officer docked coaster MAT
One may go off fruit PINEAPPLE
Part of home game, last in series OMEGA
Poor ranches book up ONHORSEBACK
Problems filling hole up slope HILLSIDE
Pull to pieces Diane's role DISMANTLE
Rally rounding on head of state MONARCH
Ray opted out, or in? TORPEDO
Servant climbing on top of dresser finds a precious stone DIAMOND
Son's new method being demonstrated ONSHOW
Sounds as if fellow is following energy message EMAIL
The best models may be the French, supporting opera TOSCALE
Tough line taken by hospital department STRINGENT
Working on pitches, in this discipline? PHONETICS