Kids of STEEL Goes Global: First International Site Inspires Movement in South Africa

PITTSBURGH, PA - Kids of STEEL, P3R’s acclaimed youth fitness program, is making its international debut in Kempton Park, South Africa. This expansion showcases the universal appeal of the program, which inspires families to move together through fun and engaging activities.

Kids of STEEL offers programming for youth of all ages by promoting health and wellness at more than 300 school, daycare and community sites. Focusing on physical movement, fun activities and character development, the Kids of STEEL curriculum is flexible and adaptable to any environment.

The program's flexibility and fun-first approach make it a perfect fit for diverse communities worldwide—an appeal that drew the attention of South African coach Charl Whitaker.

Earlier this year, Whitaker began coaching adult runners in Kempton Park, South Africa, through his company, RunBelievable Coaching. When parents expressed interest in programs for their children, Whitaker turned to the internet, where he discovered Kids of STEEL.

“I love that Kids of STEEL gets kids moving with fun,” Whitaker said. “I also loved the idea where the kids can build up to a marathon by being active at school, home or recess and having the opportunity to take part in a 1-mile race to complete the marathon distance. I love all of it. There’s a lot of cool and fun stuff in the program like the games and brain teasers.”

After connecting with the Kids of STEEL team via Zoom, Whitaker felt inspired and ready to bring the program to life in South Africa. He and his wife, Juanet, were particularly excited about getting the kids moving by having fun while also getting the community involved in a fitness program that everyone will enjoy.

When asked about his long-term goals, Whitaker shared a vision for the future. “I’m thinking of getting some schools involved so we could compete against each other. I really want to try and implement the marathon idea with one of our bigger races. I believe that this is the start of something big not only for us but for the community as a whole.”

Whitaker recognizes that this is just the beginning. With small steps and gradually building up the program, he hopes to create something that one day may have national success in South Africa.

“Seeing Kids of STEEL reach South Africa is a proud moment for our team,” said Troy Schooley, P3R CEO. “It underscores the universal importance of youth movement and the role our program can play in bringing communities together around the globe. This milestone reflects P3R’s dedication to creating opportunities for movement and wellness for all, no matter where they are in the world.”

To learn more about Kids of STEEL or to bring the program to your community, visit www.kidsofsteel.org.

About P3R  

P3R is the region’s go-to premier sporting event and experience expert. While best known for the annual DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, P3R organizes up to 20 major events every year. With a rich history of working with top-tier clients such as the Pittsburgh Steelers, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, the Pittsburgh Penguins, the National Senior Games, and more, P3R brings operational excellence to every aspect of event planning and execution. As part of P3R’s non-profit mission to inspire any and all to MOVE with us, we provide premium event experiences and robust programming - including the Run for a Reason Charity Program, award-winning Kids of STEEL program, Pittsburgh Corporate Challenge, RUN Varsity, and more - that engage everyone in the Western Pennsylvania community and beyond.

About Kids of STEEL  

Kids of STEEL is P3R’s Youth Fitness program that is available at more than 270 sites throughout western Pennsylvania and the tri-state region. The program motivates kids and their families to move together as they train for an event such as the DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend of Events or any P3R event. Click here for more information about Kids of STEEL.

About RunBelievable Coaching   

RunBelievable Coaching was founded by Charl Whitaker in January of 2024 and offers coaching expertise to his clients. “Power Lies Within” is his mantra to help individuals achieve their personal goals. RunBelievable Kids of STEEL began in November 2024 and seeks to get kids moving while having fun.  

FACEBOOK:  RunBelievable-Coaching