The Central Pennsylvania chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society took advantage of favorable weather yesterday to sponsor a 5K run to raise money for multiple sclerosis research.

About 300 registered runners and walkers -- including a number of current multiple sclerosis patients -- participated in the event, which raised nearly $30,000, said State College Walk Coordinator Karen Gregg.

"Participation was much higher this year than last year," Gregg said. "Usually it's probably 200."

Total fundraising exceeded expectations, as well, she said.

"My goal set for this walk was $18,000, so I exceeded that," she said.

Gregg said her mother, a multiple sclerosis patient, inspired her to start the event, which has been going on since 1997.

Since then, Gregg's event has attracted large teams of runners and a number of sponsors to contribute gift bags and lunches.

Among the many individuals and teams who participated this year was Team Gretchen, a group of walkers that participates in multiple sclerosis benefits. Team Gretchen has been participating in multiple sclerosis benefits for 17 years throughout the country and has raised as much as $23,000 at a single event in 2006, team member Beth Pinto said.