Kalgoorlie-Boulder Hash House Harriers is a unique sports club located in Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Australia. Described as “a drinking club with a running problem,” the group consists of a mix of runners and walkers who meet every Sunday afternoon. In the summer, the meeting time is 5:00pm, while in winter, it is adjusted to 4:00pm.
For just $10, members can participate in the run, circle, and enjoy delicious food. Apart from these benefits, the club offers a truly entertaining experience that can brighten up anyone's life. Attendees are responsible for purchasing their own drinks at club prices. To retrieve further information, interested individuals can visit the next run page or reach out to one of the committee members.
The Hash House Harriers, commonly known as HHH or H3, is a global network of loosely-associated running groups. Although a decentralised organisation, chapters are able to form and disband in any location and at any time. Each individual hash possesses its own unique customs and rituals, often characterised by their absurdity. However, most hashes share several key characteristics.
During a Hash run, participants follow a trail that is not disclosed in advance, but rather marked by one of the members. This unpredictability and dynamic nature contribute to the excitement of the run. At the conclusion of the trail, a ceremony called 'down-downs' takes place, where participants celebrate by drinking beer.
As members attend multiple runs, they will receive a “hash name,” typically based on sexual innuendo or a memorable incident involving the new member. These hash names become the primary way in which participants refer to one another.
The origins of hashing can be traced back to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 1938. Restive British company men formed a hare and hounds running group at the Selangor Club, also known as the “Hash House,” which inspired the name of the organisation. Drawing inspiration from traditional British public school paper chases, a Hare would be given a head start to blaze a trail, marked by shreds of paper, before being pursued by a pack of shouting Harriers. Only the Hare knew the trail, and the Harriers followed the marks to stay on track.
The reward for solving the Hare's marks and reaching the end was finding a tub of iced-down beer.
Hashing initially declined during World War II but experienced a revival in the post-war years. It spread gradually through Singapore, Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand before surging in popularity in the late 70s and early 80s. Today, thousands of Hash House Harrier clubs exist worldwide, complete with newsletters, directories, and regional and global Hashing conventions.
By joining the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Hash House Harriers, members can experience the thrill of the run, the camaraderie of the group, and the enjoyment of a cold beer at the end. It is a club that offers a unique blend of sports, socialising, and fun.