Maybe you’re acquainted, maybe you’re not. Hash House
Harriers are people who run straight through any kind of terrain, usually
following paper or flour. At the end of each run there’s a beer truck and
some snacks. Hence the slogan: Drinkers with a running problem!
The most popular male hash in Chiang Mai is called the
CUMH3 (Chiang Mai Undergound Male Hash). This hash was started in 1999 by
Peter “DC” van Loo and Scott “S” Rulka, and is coming up to it’s
200th run which will be a great event on (what a coincidence) the 4th of
October 2005 (World Animal Day).
Chiang
Mai Undergound Male Hash founders Scott “S” Rulka and Peter “DC” van
Loo.
Asked what makes this Hash so special Scott replies,
“Well first of all it’s the camaraderie and the fact that in the end
we’re all equal”. What else can you be when you’re struggling through
jungle terrain?
“This hash has no specific structure as the person that
sets the run will be the person in charge for that day,” Scott continued.
A great concept which makes it very variable and also not vulnerable to the
usual “club politics”. Runs are sometimes long (up to 1 1/2 hours) and
can be shorter (even 40-minute runs).
Hash House Harriers is an incredible way to discover the
terrain around Chiang Mai. “In all the years I’ve lived here, I’ve
seen more with the male hash than on my own trips and travels,” says Scott
enthusiastically. The CUMH3 meets on all Tuesdays at 16.00 at the Fish n
Chips shop on Rachawithee Road (telephone: 053-418210).
“It’s funny to see people from all standings and
walks of life join together with a mutual goal: having a good time with
their mates and a fun work-out,” says Scott. All nationalities are
represented with the current members: Thai, Swiss, German, Dutch, American,
Brits, Welsh, Scots, Irish, Norwegian, New Zealanders and many more.
Optional after the run is what is called an “On On” when everyone goes
into town to find some fun places to quench any thirst left.
Normal runs are only about 250 baht including food and as
much beer as you can drink. And everyone is welcome, even tourists (sent us
more; the last ones were delicious!).
“Of course this 200th run on the 4th of October will be
an extra special event,” says Scott. “We have invited hashers from other
(male) chapters in Thailand, and there will be a special T-shirt included
and excellent food in the field. All that, including transport and of course
again ... beer, for 800 baht.”
In the meantime, feel welcome to join this popular male hash anytime!
There are also mixed hashes in Chiang Mai which start from the Fish n Chips
Shop on Saturdays at 16.00, such as the CH4 (Chiang Mai Happy Hash) which is
suited for couples and children alike. The Hash House Harriers will always
make you feel welcome in any place you go to. The hash hopes to be able to
welcome you one day!
The
Petanque competition
