Shaikh (25) kept pushing Our Jackman down the long Wingatui straight in the rating 65 1400m to record his second winning ride at his 32nd attempt, but he has been around the world in his quest to make his way in thoroughbred racing - starting back in his native India and his home state of Maharashtra.
''I started working in Capricorn Stud as a boy, just doing hand work, then I started as a track work rider,'' he said.
''Then my uncle decided to take me to England and I worked at Newmarket for two years.''
Visa restrictions forced Shaikh to move again, and after a brief spell back home in Pune, he went to Australia and found himself working for the trainer of Black Caviar, Peter Moody, for two or three months.
Shaikh has a wife and 3-year-old daughter at home in Pune, 150km southeast of Mumbai near the western coast of India, and he is looking forward to his holiday to India in less than three weeks.
Shaikh will also go home to a new asset, courtesy of some meticulous saving during his time away from India.
''I have bought a house in India, so when I go to India, I'll do the paperwork and have a house in my hands.''
Shaikh has options on his hands after he gets back from his holiday.
''I just want to ride out my claim and be a better jockey,'' he said.
''Once I become a better jockey, I might change to something else and go to Dubai, or stay at home with my wife and daughter.''
Shaikh was appreciative of the support from his master, Michael Pitman, and Michael's wife, Diane.
''Diane is very supportive and Michael has given me a lot of chances,'' he said.
