RUN Varsity

Let's Get MOVING!

About RUN Varsity

RUN Varsity is the P3R program designed to support, educate, and encourage teenage athletes. While middle schoolers aspire to run for their school’s varsity team and high school runners compete at the varsity level, all teenagers are welcome at RUN Varsity events. RUN Varsity is the natural transition following P3R's award-winning youth program, Kids of STEEL. RUN Varsity does not interfere with athletes' normal school sports seasons, but in turn supplements them with summer events, grant opportunities, and educational components such as webinars, videos, and in-person events.

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Upcoming Events and Opportunities

The Summer Run Series

The RUN Varsity Summer Run Series is a way for middle and high-school-aged athletes to stay motivated, meet new people, and train in new ways this summer. This series consists of a combination of free and paid events that range from group runs, educational talks, meet and greets, a timed race and a multi-day running clinic.

UPMC Running Clinic "Empowering the Teenage Runner" | P3R Track & Field Complex at the RMU Island Sports Center | July 24 and 25 from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

This two-day run clinic is perfect for the athlete looking to take their running to the next level or someone just starting their fitness journey. This year's sessions will be led by top coaches and special guest professional runners. You'll learn breathing exercises, optimal running form, cross-training techniques, injury prevention drills, race tactics, and even try some excellent running workouts.
All registrants receive a FREE pair of Brooks Running shoes. 👟👟

FREE Events: The Summer Run Series consists of 3 FREE events in addition to the optional running clinic. Learn about this year's free events below.

Fuel Up - Nutrition and Hydration for Athletes | White Oak Park - Magnolia Pavilion | Date TBD
Unlock Your Full Potential with Yoga | Schoolhouse Yoga - North Hills | June 26 from 6:30 - 7:30 pm
Weight Lifting for Runners | D1 Training - Pittsburgh West | Date July TBD

P3R Board of Directors' Scholarship

The P3R Board of Directors' Scholarship was established to recognize and support graduating high school seniors who inspire others to MOVE. This scholarship will be awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional leadership and service, both through and beyond athletics.

Recipients are selected based on a combination of school involvement, athletic participation, academics, community service, leadership, and essay questions.

Download the application below. PLEASE REFER TO THE INSTRUCTIONS IN THE APPLICATION DOCUMENT. Email the complete application to scholarship@P3R.org by March 14, 2025. Winners will be notified by April 11, 2025.

P3R Movement Grant

The P3R Movement Grant is a unique grant opportunity that is open to any youth (individual and youth organizations serving students under 19 years of age) regardless of sport or activity. If you need assistance with purchasing equipment, registration fees, hosting events, or anything that will help you and/or your team MOVE, this opportunity is for you!

In 2024, P3R awarded $14,000 in grants to 20 schools and youth-serving organizations.

Grant Applications are CLOSED for 2024. Stay Tuned for Applications opening in August 2025.

If you and your team/club are looking to receive a grant in return for volunteering at a P3R Event please apply at the following link - APPLY AND LEARN MORE

YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh Turkey Trot - Teams can win $500!

Did you know that Thanksgiving is the most popular running day in the country? Every school with 5 or more participants for the 1-mile, 5K, or 5-mile will be entered in a drawing to win $500 for their club or school. Make sure you list your school name when you register.

This year 32 schools qualified and Hillel Academy of Pittsburgh won the random selection for the $500 grant.