When the PRC first opened its clubhouse doors 45 years ago this October 1st it was one of the first multi-purpose clubs in the United States. Tennis and swim clubs were common and racquetball was growing in popularity throughout the country. Yet the Garrett brothers were among the first to combine tennis, racquetball, swimming and a workout room to create a private membership club. Fourth generation Venturans, Scott and Spencer Garrett returned to Ventura in the summer of 1975 and started developing the Club on 5.5 acres leased from the Pierpont Inn. With the backing of their parents Betty & Joe Garrett they attracted a few investors and secured a loan from the Bank of A Levy. Over the years the Garretts have continued to make improvements to the Club to keep pace with the changing needs of its members.
There aren’t many businesses that make it through 45 years. When asked what gives him the greatest satisfaction, Spencer Garrett said “I think what we have done well and still do is to create an atmosphere where people can meet and make life-long friends.” There are still 32 people who have been members ever since the clubhouse opened in 1977. As they did for the 40th Anniversary in 2017, the Garretts have invited the Charter Members to a special reception the afternoon before the club wide party. On tennis court #1 on Saturday, October 15th, this year’s party, “Retro 70s”, will feature desserts, drawings and dancing to the tunes of D.J. Scott Christopher. Once again party proceeds will go to benefit a local non-profit. This year the Food Share of Ventura County is the beneficiary.
Club Manager Kerrie Anderson, who first started at the Club in 1986 as a Fitness Director, is excited about the planned renovations to the Pierpont Racquet Club. “Like so many other small businesses we have been challenged the last couple years by the pandemic. We are thankful to all our members who stuck with us during periods when operations had to cease. Today our tennis and swim programs are as strong as ever and many of our members are now into playing pickleball. Our gym and fitness classes continue to see more and more members getting back into their routines. We also have seen a influx of new members, especially young families. It is great to see so much activity at the Club again” added Kerrie.
When asked about future plans, Spencer Garrett said, “Scott and I never gave much thought to what was in store 10 years after we opened let alone 45. We’ve been blessed with so many great employees and members that this has never felt like a job. It’s been a privilege to see all that we have created and I know the future will be even brighter. I look forward to 2027 when we will host a party to celebrate our 50th year.”
Pierpont Racquet Club 500 SanJon Road Ventura, CA 93001
(805) 648-5161 www.pierpontrc.com
