Pounding Pavement 5k for PKU--in Lycoming County

Mark Hauck of Milton is on a personal mission.  When his niece was diagnosed with phenylketonuria, or PKU, shortly after her birth three years ago, Hauck began raising funds to help find a cure.

His first two solo fundraisers included walking 130 miles across Massachusetts, and bicycling 150 miles across Pennsylvania.

This year, Hauck has organized the first “Pounding Pavement 5k for PKU" race on Sunday, October 23. The run, hosted by White Deer Golf Course in Montgomery, kicks off at 9 a.m.

Hauck downplays his role by stating, "I'm an ordinary uncle trying to do extraordinary things to raise donations for awareness of PKU. This will be my third fundraiser since 2009 and I have raised over $5,100 in total donations during my first two years."

Phenylketonuria is an inherited genetic metabolic disorder in which the enzyme required to digest phenylalanine (PHE), a part of protein, is either missing or does not work correctly. As a result of this missing or defective enzyme, individuals with PKU, if untreated, will develop high levels of PHE in their blood, which can affect brain development and function.

By following a strict low PHE diet, individuals with PKU can avoid any problems associated with high PHE levels. Other “allied disorders” also exist where individuals cannot break down galactose (galactosemia), glutaric acid (glutaric aciduria), or other components of proteins.

Registration for the event is $22; awards will be given to the first overall male and female, as well as first, second and third place in each age group. Age groups are 15 and under, 16-20, 21-25, 26-35, 36-45, 46-54, and 55 and over.

Donations can be viewed on Hauck's website, www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/poundingpavement5k/pku

The event is United States Track and Field Certified and also chip timing services will be provided by PaRunners.com. Live entertainment will be provided by Rob Iacuzio.