After a lean trot in 2011 in the North West, Morris and Saunders stepped back into the winners circle when Just A Touch held on to claim the famous Birdsville Cup.

The astute trainer felt the six-year-old had done enough in his two runs on the sand before the cup to earn a start in the $28,000 mile run.

His faith and judgement were vindicated when Just A Touch got home by half a length from Let Go Johnny.

Moving out from the rails after starting from barrier one Just A Touch began his move forward on the final bend.

Saunders said he felt the horse had gone too early and would not be able to hold out.

In the end, Just A Touch held on to clock a new race record (1:35.29) and had his connections jumping for joy.

Saunders was full of praise for Morris and his faith in the galloper.

"It definitely wasn't a bad effort for a horse a few weeks ago we weren't sure would handle the dirt," he said.

"I think Jay got him to peak at the perfect time and a drop in weight (to carry) definitely helped the cause."

The afternoon got even better for Morris and Saunders when boom sprinter Outstandingly took out the $12,500 Weight for Age over 1200 metres.

In a two-horse race the five-year-old nudged out Denise Ballard and fellow Mount Isa trained horse in The Beast with a great rails run.