Photo by: The Advocate
Red Lerille's Health & Racquet Club stands as a beacon of health and wellness, a testament to a dream nurtured and realized over decades. The story of this iconic establishment begins with a young, red-haired teenager named Red Lerille, whose ambition to become Mr. America and own a gym was ignited by the sight of his muscular uncle, Harold. Little did he know that his dreams would take shape in the heart of Louisiana, shaping not only his life but also the lives of countless others who would walk through the doors of his establishment.
In 1953, Joe Gold, the visionary founder of Gold’s Gyms and World Gym International, opened his first gym, "Ajax Gym," in New Orleans. It was within the walls of this gym that Red's journey in the fitness world began. Despite his tender age of 17, Joe saw potential in Red and became his mentor. Over a casual lunch one Saturday, Joe flipped through a magazine featuring Bill Pearl on the cover and prophesied to Red, "You could win Mr. America one day." From that moment, Red found himself on a path guided by his mentor's encouragement.
Years of dedication and hard work culminated in 1960 when Red Lerille achieved his dream and won the prestigious title of Mr. America. Fueled by his success, Red embarked on a new venture, opening a 4,000 sq. ft. club in Lafayette on January 13, 1963. However, the journey didn't stop there; in 1965, Red Lerille's Health Club found its permanent home on Doucet Road, where it still stands today.
The club's evolution mirrored Red's relentless pursuit of excellence. In 1968, Red expanded his vision by adding a health food store run by Boyer Coe, further emphasizing his commitment to holistic well-being. Subsequent years saw continuous growth, with additions such as a vinyl-lined pool and expanded weight training facilities.
In 1973, the club underwent a significant expansion with the addition of two racquetball courts, three indoor tennis courts, and a pro shop. This marked the beginning of a new era for Red Lerille's Health & Racquet Club, which soon became synonymous with excellence in fitness and recreation.
Racquet sports dominated the '70s, leading to the club's expansion to include numerous outdoor and indoor tennis courts and racquetball facilities. By 1978, the club boasted 10 outdoor tennis courts, 8 racquetball courts, and 3 indoor tennis courts, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for sports enthusiasts.
The '80s ushered in a new era of construction, with additions like a junior Olympic pool, basketball court, indoor and outdoor jogging tracks, additional outdoor tennis courts, racquetball courts, aerobic rooms, and a nursery. These expansions reflected Red's commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities and amenities for members to enjoy.
The '90s brought further advancements with the introduction of treadmills, computerized cardio equipment, step aerobics, spinning bikes, and an array of gym equipment and free weights. The club continued to evolve, embracing technological innovations and emerging fitness trends to meet the changing needs of its members.
The dawn of the new millennium heralded a period of refurbishment and expansion, with renovations to the pool deck, outdoor track, parking lot, landscaping, and pool cabana. New facilities such as group exercise rooms, spinning studios, and updated locker rooms were added, enhancing the member experience.
There is a memory wall at Red Lerille's Health & Racquet Club, standing as a poignant tribute to decades of dedication, camaraderie, and shared experiences. Adorned with photographs spanning from the gym's inception to the vibrant present, this wall encapsulates the essence of community, showcasing the faces and moments that have shaped the journey of Red Lerille and his beloved establishment. From the black-and-white memories of the early days to the colorful snapshots of today, each image tells a story of friendship, resilience, and the enduring pursuit of wellness. As members and visitors alike pause to reflect upon these captured moments, they are reminded of the profound connections that bind them together—a testament to the enduring legacy of Red Lerille's vision and the timeless spirit of unity that thrives within these walls.
Throughout its history, Red Lerille's Health & Racquet Club has remained at the forefront of the fitness industry, adapting to emerging trends and member preferences. From the introduction of innovative programs like Les Mills Body Pump to the implementation of state-of-the-art equipment, the club has consistently prioritized excellence and member satisfaction.
As we look back on the remarkable journey of Red Lerille's Health & Racquet Club, we recognize it as a beacon of encouragement, motivation, and growth. It is a place where dreams are realized, goals are achieved, and friendships are forged. Here's to the past, present, and future of Red Lerille's Health & Racquet Club—a sanctuary of health and wellness in the heart of Louisiana.
When visiting Red Lerille's Health & Racquet Club, be sure to mention that Bayou State Media sent you. It's a nod to the community connections and partnerships that enrich the experience of stepping into this haven of health and wellness. As you explore the facilities, take a moment to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and storied history, knowing that you're welcomed as part of a network of support and encouragement. Whether you're embarking on a fitness journey or simply seeking a space to unwind, remember that you're among friends at Red Lerille's, where every visit is an opportunity to nurture both body and soul.
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