Malibu Racquet Club touts expansion plans, upcoming Bryan brothers event

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The Malibu Racquet Club is preparing to host a major charity tournament Oct. 22 featuring the legendary tennis doubles team of Mike and Bob Bryan, but plans are also afoot for a major expansion of the club. General Manager Trey Waltke confirmed Friday the club had purchased three acres adjacent to the club at 23847 Stuart Ranch Road. The club, owned by billionaire Larry Ellison, hopes to add four to five additional courts, a spa, lap pool and a gym.

“We’re just trying to become the best club we can here and hopefully the best club in Southern California,” Waltke said.

The club purchased the property after it cleared escrow about a month ago. Waltke said the club, which currently has eight tennis courts, hoped to add four to five new courts and was exploring options for the different surface types. Waltke said the club is working with the city on permitting and hopes to have the courts built within a year and a half.

To accommodate the growing number of tennis-playing members who like to cross train to stay in shape, Waltke said another major expansion item is a gym with workout facilities and space for spinning and pilates classes. Also in the works are plans for a lap pool and a spa, which would entail rooms for facials, massages and Jacuzzis.

Club owner Ellison also owns the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, which hosts the largest professional tournament in the world outside of the four majors. Waltke said members of the Malibu Racquet Club also have access to that club.

On Oct. 22, the Malibu Racquet Club will host a charity event by Mike and Bob Bryan, winners of 10 grand slam titles. The event will feature a tennis pro/am tournament and an exhibition with the Bryan brothers, as well as some of the top professionals in men’s tennis. Waltke said the club was hoping to attract top names such as Mardy Fish, John Isner and Thousand Oaks native Sam Querrey.

The exhibition will be followed by music and catering by the Cheese Box at Wally’s. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Bryan Brothers Foundation. The foundation supports a wide range of charities that help at-risk youth, and seeks out specific families and children in need.