Black-type Touch back at Belmont

Scenic Lodge champion Blackfriars was back in black with Summah’s Touch on Saturday.

Summah’s Touch (3f Blackfriars – Hollywood Touch by Citidancer) had won the LR Belmont Guineas (1600m) last month and was untroubled to claim the second-leg of Perth’s winter features in the LR Belmont Oaks (2000m).

She will start a pronounced favourite for the LR Belmont Classic (2200m) on July 20.

Summah’s Touch led home a Blackfriars procession in the Belmont Oaks ahead of Elle On Friar (2nd), Pants On Friar (4th), Charm Destiny (6th), All Primed Up (9th) and Atheli (14th).

“She went around in the Guineas for a good hit-out,” trainer Adam Durrant said.  “I didn’t expect her to be forward enough but she got the money.  All credit to Ben (Paterson) today.  There was a bit of pressure and he rode her perfectly.”

Blackfriars (Danehill) is enjoying one of his best seasons siring the winners of 11 black-type events.  Summah’s Touch can help equal his PB of 12 – set last season – in the Belmont Classic.

Scenic Lodge sold Summah’s Touch for $30,000 at the 2011 Perth Magic Millions.  Her dam Hollywood Touch has a weanling colt by Scenic Lodge sire Universal Ruler but missed to Blackfriars last year.

Blackfriars (Danehill) is standing at a $20,000 (plus gst) service fee at Scenic Lodge this year.  Associate sire Universal Ruler (Scenic) is priced at $3,500 (plus gst).