While its current form came together in 2003 with the addition of the Downtown Athletic Club, the full history of The Athletic Clubs in Little Rock dates back to 1967 with the founding of the Little Rock Racquet Club. The Westside Tennis Center came on the scene in 1973, and both groups became privately owned in 1989. Westside later became Little Rock Athletic Club, acquiring Little Rock Racquet Club a decade later. Today, the three clubs serve members from across central Arkansas.
“The consistent theme has been reinvestment,” said CEO and Managing Partner Frank Lawrence. “We continue to improve our facilities, add programming and respond to how members use the clubs.”
Pickleball is just one example of The Athletic Clubs’ keen sense for what members want to see. The group jumped onto the pickleball train early, investing in top-notch facilities and programming as the sport picked up steam. Now, it is one of The Athletic Clubs’ most popular amenities. Similar investments have been made to meet growing demand for swimming and summer programming, and, Lawrence said, the clubs are “now as active as they have ever been.”
“We are not simply gyms. We are communities,” he said. “You can find a treadmill almost anywhere, but it is much harder to find the breadth and character of our clubs: fitness, tennis, pickleball, aquatics and programming for every age, all in a place that feels like home. We reinvest in the member experience year after year, and members respond by using the clubs and bringing their families and friends. We work every day to be ‘the place to be’ in the city.”
Lawrence first became involved with the clubs as a member, having played tennis there during visits to Little Rock since he was a child. In 2012, nearly three decades into a financial services career, Lawrence’s now-business partner presented him the opportunity to acquire the clubs and lead the day-to-day operations. It was an easy choice — in all of about 30 seconds, the deal was done.
“I knew these were places I wanted to nurture and improve for the community,” Lawrence said. “I enjoy walking the floor and seeing members who have become friends, families working out together and children learning a sport they may play for the rest of their lives. We help people live healthier, more connected lives, and seeing that every day is a privilege.”
Lawrence joined the ranks of the Little Rock Executives’ Association one year ago, and already he has noticed the difference membership makes. Spending time with other Little Rock business owners all committed to helping one another has sharpened his own leadership and connections, he said. What is more, many LREA members also belong to The Athletic Clubs and understand firsthand the value they bring to the central Arkansas community. Lawrence has in turn gained a deeper understanding of the value other LREA members bring through their various lines of work.
“We connect people with one another’s businesses and help our city thrive,” Lawrence said. “In a city like Little Rock, strong relationships strengthen every business, and LREA has become an important part of that for me.”
4610 Sam Peck, Little Rock
501-225-3600
Year founded: 1967
Years in business: 59
Number of employees: 400
Years in LREA: 1
Aiming to be “the place to be” in Little Rock, The Athletic Clubs continue to provide a platform for a life well lived through smart investments in amenities, programming, health and wellness for members.
Feature Photo: Frank Lawrence
