### Clue: Handy thing to take up or run (8)
### Answer: GAUNTLET 
 ### Explanation: Definition: Handy thing to take up,run
  Double defn: 1st: A glove,the very thing for your hand, which you can take up to accept a challenge – it could be figuratively, or literally if someone throws down his gauntlet, perhaps after slapping you with it; and 2nd: The thing to run,to suffer or endure an onslaught or ordeal – again it could be figuratively, or literally when you are forced between two rows of men (or women?) who strike you as you run through, originally a form of military punishment.