Star Major had previously held the record after posting a mile rate of 1:51.8 last October, which was bettered by Jerulas Grin (1:51.6).

However the five-year-old proved too good for a stellar field to push the magical 1:50 barrier.

Reinsman Charlie Castles was thrilled with his efforts as he held stablemate Ignatius at bay to win in a mile rate of 1:50.3.

"It was real good and he just went super," Castles said.

"I think he loves this track, as he's set the track record here before a little while ago.

"He did go a far bit quicker but he's gone so good."

Castles was able to dictate terms after capitalising on a better draw than his more-credentialed rivals.

The catch-me-if-you-can tactics certainly worked.

"That was my plan - to try to get them off the bit early and keep on going," Castles said.

"That is probably the best he's ever gone and it is nearly his best ever mile rate.

"We're just so happy with how he went and even Ignatius has gone great running into second."

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The win was Star Major's second in four starts this season and he's only missed the placings once in his last nine starts.

Ignatius finished 6.1 metres away after striking trouble coming around the turn for home while Send It rattled into third for Brad Hewitt.

The return of regionalised racing means Menangle is off limits for those out of Greater Sydney.

It has seen Castles and his boss James Rattray hit the road to race at Wagga from their base at Exeter.

However the 20-year-old has been enjoying plenty of success.

"I've been really enjoying coming down here," Castles said.

"It reminds me a lot of a track back home (Launceston) so I really like driving here.

"It's a good size with really nice straights."

Visiting trainers dominated the meeting five of the nine races won by trainers from outside the Riverina.

It comes after Victorian visitor Bar Room Banta set a new track record at Leeton on Tuesday.