Corporate:   Our History Company Philosophy Employment Properties   Our History     In an industry dominated by franchise and national brands, Columbia Athletic Clubs is a rarity. Operating since 1981, we are a locally owned and operated family business with generations of success. At its core, it is this culture of service, community and family that sets Columbia Athletic Clubs apart; and it all starts from the personal commitment, vision and values of Cy Oskoui. Cy came to America in the 1960¹s to complete his undergraduate studies at Utah State University and graduate studies at the University of Oregon. In 1978, Cy left the support of his extended family and immigrated to America with his wife, Feryal, daughter Farnaz and son Allen to pursue the American dream. Searching for a new beginning in 1980, Cy chose to open the first Columbia Athletic Club in vibrant Kirkland, because he felt this was a business that helped people live better lives, and a way to become part of his new community, meet people and make new friends. Soon, Cy had 1200 new friends helping him adjust to his new life, and they became his new extended family. Today, Columbia Athletic Clubs has grown to a state-of-the-art network of conveniently located clubs and fitness centers. Walk into a Columbia Athletic Club today and you will feel Cy's personal pride in excellence, spirit of friendliness and honest caring that cannot be matched.