There is so much I could say about the Juba HASH. Soooooo much I could say about it, but I won't, other than to say it is great fun and a really wonderful way to meet people as well as getting in some good exercise as we run around the Juba area.
For people unfamiliar with the HASH, the HASH was started by British ex-pats in Asia somewhere back in the 30's or so. It has been described as "a drinking club with a running problem," and now spans the globe. I was aware of their being a HASH in Juba but I resisted for nearly two years because I thought it was merely a drunken brawl. My evidence for this possibility was the regular extremely hung-over condition of two friends, one a faithful HASHer, whom I would see at church early on Sunday mornings. However, another very dear friend who arrived in Juba and participated in the HASH assured me that my fears were misplaced; the extreme inebriation of my friends was the result of post-HASH consumption rather than at the HASH.
I started participating in the HASH around February of 2012 and have not looked back at all. The hour or two I spend there each week is often the highlight of my week, such is the state of my social life in Juba. But it really is a great way to meet people, to unwind and have some fun.
A few weeks ago we ran just outside Juba at an area near Gormoruk Cemetary. This is a really nice area, with some old volcanic hills which afford great views of the surrounding country. Juba is surrounded by classical African savanna grasslands which you don't really appreciate at ground level, you have to get up a few meters and take in a grand vista to see the beauty.
Here are some photos from that HASH:
 |
| Out on the trail. On-on! |
 |
| This was a small pool, outcrops of granite and basalt made a natural dam. Anyone for a dip? |
|
 |
| After the run, the challenge was to haul the "beverages" up on the rocks |
|
 |
| Everyone post run enjoying drinks, songs and fellowship |
 |
| The view from the mountain with yours truly showing his good side. Hard to tell where the socks end and the white legs begin. Nice hole in the shirt, d'oh! |
 |
| A friend enjoying the view from the mountain |
|
My sister follows your blog and sent me a link. Having hashed for about 17 years with my wife throughout the US and in many countries, I could not imagine a world without it. Like most social "clubs" it does not live without its dramatic moments but you will never find a better group of like minded folk. I can think of no better way to spend an afternoon than taking in the views from the highest peak or the deepest mud bog - all places I would never go without the guidance of a fearless yet creative hare!
ReplyDeleteON-ON!
Thank you for your comments. Indeed, HASHing has become a very important part of my life, and I have met wonderful people through my involvement. On On!!
ReplyDeleteYour blog is fascinating. Am contemplating using my experience and education for missionary work in Africa. Would appreciate an opportunity to correspond with you regarding your experiences. Carolyne
ReplyDeleteSorry - I am not a very good Blogger. Honestly, I am too busy living to have much time to write about it.
DeleteBut I would be happy to correspond with you and offer any advice I can. Please write back if you are interested.
Thank you for reading.