World’s largest indoor Pickleball complex to boost Macon-Bibb economy
Macon-Bibb started 2024 with the grand opening of the Rhythm and Rally Sports and Events complex—the largest indoor Pickleball facility in the world.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Pickleball has been described as America’s fastest growing sport, and now there’s a space in Macon for players of any skill level to enjoy the game.
It’s a strange name for a popular game. And no, it doesn’t have anything to do with pickles. You play it with paddles and plastic balls.
According to longtime player Woody Owens, it’s like racquetball but a little bit easier.
“A little slower paced that I can do it,” Owens said. “I hope to do it until I get to where I can’t walk.”
It’s quickly becoming a favorite pastime in Macon.
With the city hosting several outdoor Pickleball tournaments last year, it’s starting 2024 with the grand opening of the Rhythm and Rally Sports and Events complex – the largest indoor Pickleball facility in the world.
A grand opening celebration was held on Monday.
Rhythm and Rally General Manager John Roberts says it wasn’t easy getting to this point.
“You really have to have a vision, imagination to see what this space would be,” Roberts said.
The 150,000 sq. ft. complex is inside what was once a Belk department store at Macon Mall.
The Executive Director of the Macon-Bibb County Urban Development Authority, Alex Morrison, says the renovation of the space is part of a greater effort to revitalize the Eisenhower Business Corridor.
“We decided to rehab this a couple of years ago as a Pickleball facility when we realized two things: one, that this space actually physically worked for it. And two, that the Pickleball demand in Macon was growing exponentially,” Morrison explained.
With two stories featuring 32 Pickleball courts, lockers, showers and a pro-shop, the first of its kind facility is set to attract state, regional and national tournaments, events that can bring in big bucks for the county.
In December, Rhythm and Rally hosted its first Pickleball tournament, which raked in $350,000 alone, according to Visit Macon CEO Gary Wheat.
By the end of this year, the facility is expected to generate $3 to $5 million in revenue. It’s money Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller says can go toward improving every part of the community.
For Woody Owens, Pickleball is about staying active and making lasting friendships.
“It’s just a good activity,” he said. “It’s community fellowship. It’s just a super way to spend the day.”
Rhythm and Rally is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day. You can pay $5 to play for five hours or register to be a member.
