Lucy Ainsley’s life has long revolved around horses and the world of polo. Born and raised in London, she grew up in a deeply equestrian family, competing in showjumping at a high level before discovering polo in her late teens. After university, a trip to New Zealand to source polo ponies changed the course of her life, introducing her to both the country and her future husband.
Now based in Clevedon, Ainsley is the Executive Director of the Milford NZ Polo Open. Eight years into the role, she brings together her understanding of elite sport, event production and polo culture to lead Australasia’s most prestigious tournament.
In conversation with Lucy Ainsley
Let’s get up to speed. Tell us a bit about you and your career to date.
I’m originally from London and grew up in a very horse-centric family – my grandmother owned racehorses, and I competed at a high level in showjumping until I was around 18, when polo entered my life. After finishing university, I travelled to New Zealand to buy polo ponies to take back to the UK, which is where I met my now-husband, a professional polo player who breeds and trains polo ponies for the global market.
When the opportunity arose to take over the Milford NZ Polo Open eight years ago, it felt like a perfect alignment of everything I had worked towards. It’s a multifaceted role that draws equally on my understanding of polo, elite sport, and large-scale event production. It also allows me the flexibility to travel in the off-season, and to keep up with my three polo-playing children.
How would you describe your personal style, and what influences it the most?
Effortless, timeless, and considered. I love pieces that make a statement in a classic way, clothes that are beautifully made, tailored to suit my body, and that I can pull out season after season and still feel great in. I’m not trend-driven at all; disposable fashion and I don’t really align… My English heritage plays a huge role in my style I’d say: understated, polished, and quietly confident.
What first drew you to polo, and what’s kept you in the sport?
After stepping away from showjumping, I was looking for a horse sport that allowed me to turn up on weekends and play, but also had a strong social element. My university had a polo team, which was brilliant fun, and once I finished studying I decided to pursue it more seriously.
Polo is a global sport but an incredibly close-knit community – once you’re in, you’re in. It’s completely addictive and all-encompassing, but in the best possible way. The people are deeply passionate about the game and the horses, and it becomes a lifestyle very quickly.
My husband’s business, Ainsley Polo, operates year-round in New Zealand, selling horses internationally, and all three of our children now play. The Bombay Hills Polo Club is based out of our home operation, so we’re very much committed to the long haul.
What makes a polo pony a game-changer?
My husband would probably answer this better than I could, but mares often tend to be particularly well-suited to the game, and New Zealand Thoroughbreds are exceptional in terms of build, athleticism and intelligence. They learn the game quickly, understand their rider, and react almost instinctively. The truly special ponies are the ones that love the game and their rider. Every player will have one standout horse in their lifetime – the one that would go the extra mile, that plays with heart. It’s no different to a family pet; there are always one or two that are just extra special.
When things get busy or high-pressure, how do you reset or switch off?
Reformer Pilates, or simply getting outside and moving. I love switching off electronically by leaving my phone behind and just being present. During Milford NZ Polo Open week, I’m often spotted doing laps of the polo field between matches as a way to reset and clear my head.
Are there any New Zealand designers you gravitate toward or that more people should know about?
I’m a huge Caitlin Crisp fan. We were incredibly lucky to collaborate with her this year on a Caitlin Crisp x Milford NZ Polo Open capsule collection, and it felt like a very natural alignment. Caitlin’s design philosophy of understated luxury, impeccable tailoring, and timeless appeal mirrors the aesthetic and values of the Milford NZ Polo Open perfectly.
Quick-fire questions
The next item on my wardrobe wishlist is… A small Birkin: classic, timeless, and forever.
The book currently on my bedside table is… Polo by Jilly Cooper (of course). Fun fact: Auckland polo player and dear friend Jonny Wade was the muse for one of the Carlisle twins.
My favourite place to dine… Little Ed in Pukekohe – it’s my local, and home to the best cocktails. Everyone should try it. When I’m in the city, Bar Albert is my favourite spot to watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand. For dining, I love being close to the water (a nice contrast to my everyday outlook) so Soul and Bivacco are firm favourites.
My next holiday destination… London, to visit family.
Early bird or night owl… Night owl. You’ll often find an email from me landing at 1am.
Three everyday essentials I can’t live without… My Caitlin Crisp x Milford NZ Polo Open polo tote – it carries everything. Mecca Cosmetica Sun Series. Bvlgari Rosa perfume.
