No bones about it – Star Major delivers!

An operation earlier in the year has been the turning point for Australian harness racing’s latest hype Star Major.

The Art Major five-year-old obliterated the track record at Riverina Paceway, Wagga, today clocking 1:50.3 at just his second start back this preparation.

In this record-breaking performance Star Major left horses like stablemate Ignatius, Send It and Rockin Marty in his wake.

The result gave trainer James Rattray the quinella in the race.

“Star Major was super . . . it was just his second start back after he had some time off and a bone chip removed from his fetlock,” said the Inter Dominion winning horseman.

“We battled with the bone chip for some time and we finally made the decision to go through with the operation and he has been really sound ever since.

“I knew he was going well and the horse has broken 1:52 around Wagga before and I thought if anyone beats him, they will have to break the track record . . . I didn’t expect it to be him breaking the track record!”

Concession driver Charlie Castles, who has now collected 25 wins since beginning his career in 2017 in Tasmania, drove Star Major.

“It’s the quickest I’ve ever gone,” said Castles.

Star Major had a comfortable winning margin over Ignatius, 6.1 metres to be precise, and Rattray was just as thrilled with the runner up’s performance.

“He was caught in a bit of trouble but ran really well, I was happy with him,” said Rattray.

“I’m going to make a few calls this week and see if I can get these horses racing at Menangle or make plans to go to Melbourne.

“I want to get these horses ready for some big races coming up.”

One of the main aims is the Inter Dominion later in the year but also a possible tilt at the Victoria Cup depending on the restrictions at the time.

As for Star Major he lowered Jerulas Grin’s 1740m track record at Wagga of 1:51.6.

To watch this race click on this link

For complete results of this race meeting click on this link

By Amanda Rando for Harnesslink