Crossword Genius

Trailblazer blazing heap almost in reception (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

pioneer

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'trailblazer' is the definition.
(both can mean an innovator)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pioneer that I've seen before include "One entering new territory" , "First to explore a new area" , "original leader" , "person arriving early" , "spacecraft" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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