Walking into the Pelaez Sports Center for the first time last month, I felt that rare mix of awe and excitement that only truly world-class athletic facilities can evoke. As someone who’s visited sports complexes from Los Angeles to Tokyo, I’ve developed a pretty sharp eye for what separates the good from the great—and let me tell you, Pelaez is firmly in the latter category. It’s no surprise that elite events like the upcoming 2024 HOKA Trilogy Run Asia National Finals, scheduled for Sunday, December 8, are gravitating toward venues near the SM Mall of Asia Complex. In fact, I’d argue that Pelaez Sports Center is fast becoming the heart of competitive and recreational fitness in the region, offering an environment where professional athletes and weekend warriors alike can thrive.
I remember stepping onto the indoor track and just pausing for a moment to take it all in. The surface was immaculate—the kind of responsive, joint-friendly material you usually only see at international competitions. I’ve run on my fair share of tracks over the years, some so worn down they felt like asphalt, but this was different. It’s the same quality you’d expect at an event like the HOKA Trilogy Run, where every second counts and the course can make or break a personal best. And speaking of the Trilogy Run, the fact that it’s happening nearby isn’t just a coincidence. Organizers choose locations with infrastructure that supports high-level competition, and Pelaez delivers exactly that. With a 400-meter, 8-lane track that meets IAAF standards, plus field event zones for long jump, high jump, and shot put, it’s no wonder this facility is attracting attention.
But what really sets Pelaez apart, in my view, is how it balances elite features with everyday accessibility. Take the swimming facilities, for example. The Olympic-sized pool isn’t just for show—it’s maintained at a consistent 28 degrees Celsius, which, in my experience, is that sweet spot between refreshing and performance-ready. I swam laps there last Tuesday evening, and the water clarity, lane markers, and even the starting blocks felt professional-grade. It’s the kind of pool where you can imagine national teams training in the morning and local swim clubs enjoying it in the afternoon. And let’s not forget the diving pool, complete with 1m and 3m springboards. I tried them myself and was impressed by the spring and stability—small details, maybe, but they make a huge difference when you’re mid-air.
Another aspect I appreciate is the strength and conditioning area. Too many facilities either go all-in on heavy weights and ignore functional training, or vice versa. Pelaez strikes a perfect balance. I spent about an hour there testing equipment, from the 20 squat racks—yes, I counted—to the dedicated zones for plyometrics and mobility work. The free weights are plentiful, the machines are modern and quiet, and the floor space is generous enough that you never feel cramped. I’ve been in gyms where you’re tripping over dumbbells by 6 p.m., but Pelaez seems to have nailed the layout. It’s clear they’ve thought about traffic flow and user experience, something I wish more centers would prioritize.
Then there’s the group fitness studio, which honestly surprised me with its versatility. I dropped into a HIIT class and then a yoga session later the same day, and the transition was seamless. The flooring adapts well for both high-impact and low-intensity workouts, and the sound system is crisp without being overwhelming. I’ve taught fitness classes myself in the past, and I know how much the environment matters. Here, the lighting, ventilation, and overall vibe encourage you to push harder or relax deeper, depending on the session. It’s these thoughtful touches that, for me, elevate Pelaez from a simple gym to a holistic fitness hub.
Of course, a facility is only as good as its support services, and Pelaez doesn’t disappoint. The locker rooms are spacious, clean, and stocked with amenities like hairdryers and secure lockers—nothing revolutionary, but executed flawlessly. I used the sauna after my workout, and the dry heat was consistent and relaxing, unlike some saunas that fluctuate between lukewarm and inferno. There’s also a sports therapy clinic on-site, which I didn’t need to visit personally, but I overheard a runner raving about their post-run massage. Little things like that can turn a one-time visit into a regular habit.
Now, circling back to the HOKA Trilogy Run Asia National Finals—it’s events like these that highlight the importance of venues like Pelaez. With an estimated 5,000 participants expected, the demand for quality warm-up areas, hydration stations, and post-race recovery spaces is huge. Pelaez is positioned to meet those needs, not just for the elites but for every finisher. I’ve run in races where the aftermath felt chaotic, with nowhere to stretch or cool down properly. At Pelaez, the cooldown zones, physio tents, and even the café with its protein shakes and healthy snacks create a seamless race-day experience. It’s this integration of event readiness and daily operations that makes the center so special.
Looking ahead, I believe Pelaez Sports Center is poised to become a benchmark for sports facilities in Southeast Asia. Its blend of top-tier infrastructure, thoughtful design, and community focus is rare. Whether you’re training for a national final or just trying to stay active, this place has what you need. And with major events like the HOKA Trilogy Run choosing the area, the synergy between venue and event is only going to grow. I, for one, plan to make Pelaez my regular training spot—and if you’re serious about fitness, you might just want to do the same. After all, great facilities don’t just host athletes; they inspire them.
I still remember the first time I tried Skydrive Sport—my heart was pounding so hard I thought it might burst right through my chest harness. That was three
