The curious name
Å
RHUS
HASH
HOUSE
HARRIERS
- covers a rather different running club. As suggested in the name, the club resides in
Århus in Jutland - Denmark, and covers about 60 members.
But first of all, I would like to establish one thing. "Hash House Harriers"
has absolutely NOTHING do to with the drug of the same name.
The origin of this rather misleading name comes from the term hash, as in food, or
another word for a pub, since it was established by an Englishman.
It all started in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia back in 1938, and has then spread worldwide.
The word "Harriers" should be obvious and the "Hash House" is the
name of the club house in Kuala Lumpur.
The whole concept of "Hashing" is to have some exercise in a rather relaxed
manner. "Hashing" is meant to be for everyone, which can be seen from the large
diversity in member age, which spans from approx. 20 to mid 60's.
Prior to the run, 2 hares have set the trail using dots of flower or paper shreds. The
primary goal is then to follow the trail. The length of a run varies from approx. 4km to
15km.
When finished running, we come to the more special part of "Hashing", the Ceremony.
During the run, one person, namely the "Master of Ceremonies", has kept a close eye on
all others. Has a person, in his opinion, done anything stupid during the run, the person
is "rewarded" a "down-down". To have a "down-down" means drinking a beer on end.
Apart from running there are many rituals associated to "Hashing", not least the songs.
Furthermore, you receive another name, which is used when you are with other "Hashers".
All of the rituals play an important part in maintaining a good fellowship within the
club.
Since "Hash" clubs can be found everywhere, there is always an opportunity to have a
little exercise, no matter in what part of the world you are. And as a guest, you
are always more than welcome.
In Denmark alone we have 10 clubs.
If you want to learn more about the concept of "hashing", let me know. I can be
reached by phone or email as stated below.
Søren Abildtrup, software engineer at Klima Design A/S.
Phone. (+45)86 995524.
Email. buffalo_bill@iname.com
