Born and raised in the hills of Australia
Horses were a central part of Ross’s upbringing – his father owned an Australian stock horse stud and was actively involved in campdrafting.
At 10 years old, Ross broke in his first horse. By the age of 12, Ross was charging $20 a week to take in problem horses and get them going for their owners.
Throughout his teenage years Ross continued this work, also earning money from breaking in young horses. Ross’s weekends were devoted entirely to equestrian pursuits – including breaking records in show jumping, competing in representative teams for polocrosse, campdrafting and tent pegging.
Ross's familiarity with polo began early as his father played a season during his childhood. However, it wasn't until his late teens that Ross would become truly devoted to the game.
While working professionally as a horse breaker for the renowned Ross Clark, Ross was invited to participate in a polo tournament, sparking a career that would see Ross playing polo professionally around the world – representing Australia and making a name for himself as a leading horseman in the polo community.
These days, Ross splits his time between New Zealand and the United Kingdom.
New Zealand is home and Ross’s family base, his 3 children are each passionate young polo players. Ross works closely with brother Kel Ainsley managing Ainsley Polo - their 200+ green horse operation, facilitating polo holidays and running a private polo club.
Ross bases himself in the UK for the English season, playing and managing teams while working on his UK based green horse operation as a prominent trainer and exporter of polo ponies worldwide.
Alongside Ross's ever-growing equine endeavours, Ross fulfils his main passion as the Lead Innovator and Director at Ainsley Saddlery, where his deep horsemanship values have shaped his extensive knowledge in saddles and tack. Ross’s vast expertise is the foundation of what makes Ainsley Saddlery products unique in the market and trusted by the world’s best polo players.
Read about Ross Ainsley's unsuspecting journey to founding Ainsley Saddlery.
Join Ross Ainsley on Instagram and TikTok, where he shares his passion for horsemanship - offering invaluable knowledge, tips and tricks for riders of all levels.
Ross is a co-host of The NRG Podcast with fellow horsemen Glen Gilmore and Nick May. Tune in as they share their diverse journeys with horses along with knowledgeable guest experts - covering topics like training, behaviour, nutrition, and management. Through lively discussions and stories, they offer unique perspectives on horsemanship and the highs and lows that come with it.
Join Ross's online community and expand your horsemanship knowledge
Instagram: @ross_ainsley
TikTok: @rossainsley
Podcast: The NRG Podcast