Cali Hash House Harriers

Yesterday we hosted the first ever Cali hash!  A "hash" is a run/scavenger hunt/party.  Basically, the “hashers” follow a trail of chalk or flour (2-5 miles or 3-8 kilometers) set by the “hare” to a Hash Bash celebration with refreshments (mostly beer). However, the run gets interesting with false trails, beer stopping points, and checkpoints for hashers to catch up. It is not a race!  Instead, it's a chance for people to explore new parts of a city, make friends, and get their hearts pumping.  

And we're off!  Photo by Katie Smith

The International Hash House Harriers was founded in Malaysia in 1938 by a group of bored runners who originated the club as an alternative to lonesome (and boring) individual running. It is based in every major city worldwide, as well as many smaller towns.  Some of the objectives of the original Hash House Harriers from the 1938 group were:

• To promote physical fitness among our members

• To get rid of weekend hangovers

• To acquire a good thirst and to satisfy it in beer

• To persuade the older members that they are not as old as they feel

We first did hash runs when we lived in Busan, South Korea.  We only did a couple but really enjoyed them.  After living here in Cali for two years, we thought starting a hash club would be a great way for the expats of all the different schools in Cali to get together and socialize.  We started in front of our apartment.  Aaron served as the hare and did a fantastic job setting a trail.  The trail meandered through the south of Cali and included 3 stream crossings, plank bridges, some fantastic views of the mountains at sunset, and a whole lot of fun.  We ended with a cookout at a friend's house with plenty of food and beverages.  We are going to try and do this the last weekend of every month in different parts of the city.   People and dogs of all ages are invited!  If interested, check out our Facebook page: Cali Hash House Harriers

One of the 3 stream crossings along the way!

At a "Hash Hold"--that symbol means to get a drink and wait for others.