Wherever there is horse racing, chances are Gabi Bourke has been there.
The 22-year-old apprentice starts the next phase in his globetrotting career with four rides on today's Oamaru Cup programme, a world away from where he has enjoyed previous race-track success.
Bourke has five wins to his name in France, Sweden, Norway and New Caledonia but can list even more countries where he has worked as a track rider.
The Irish-born jockey, who has a family connection to racing through his grandparents, got his grounding in horses through pony racing and other equestrian pursuits, he said.
After changing tack and pursuing a career in racing Bourke then started what was about to become a globe-trotting career.
After tasting success in Europe, Bourke headed Down Under where he worked in Australia for nearly two years, he said.
He then had a three-month stint in New Caledonia before landing in the North Island.
After working in a northern stable, Bourke became aware of an opportunity to work for Kelvin Tyler in Riverton and again packed his bags.
He has been in the South for four months and since then has had a handful of jumping rides.
Settled in his new surrounds at Tyler's stable, the time has come for Bourke to start riding on the flat again.
''I have found my feet since I have been with him and I am happy,'' Bourke said.
He has four chances on his first day of flat riding in New Zealand.
''I was only expecting to get one of two rides, but I got four.
''I have confidence in all of them. They are all solid chances.''
Bourke rides Timy Tyler in race 4, Whats Up Alf in race 6 and Lochan Ora in race 7, all from Tyler's stable.
He will also ride the Allan Stalker-trained Southern Cool in race 8, who comes off a last-start win during the Grand National carnival.
