Mekong IndoChina Hash

Thailand, had expected to host the event in 2013 in the normal course of events but of course they were happier than anyone else to let Kunming take over when they offered. So they had had a whole extra year to think about things and they came up with a plan for some members of the various Bangkok Hashes to team up with others from various Chiang Mai Hashes to form a committee headed by Four by Two that would organize another Outstation Hash. This time the Mekong Indochina Hashers were going to Chiang Rai, in the far north of the country on the edge of the infamous Golden Triangle area.

Four by Two brought his usual efficiency to bear and the event was sold out within less than two months of being announced for the weekend 30 October to 2 November. The welcome party on Friday lulled everyone into a false sense of security and those setting off bleary-eyed for the Ballbreaker Run on Saturday had little understanding for what they had let themselves in for. A 21-km trail up and down some vertiginously steep jungle trails was more suited to a mule or mountain goat but the hill tribe guides managed to keep everyone going to some waterfalls near where the run finished and Hashers could jump into the river to cool off. The Circle site was adjacent to a natural hot spring and aches and pains were soothed by the hot water, not to mention the cold beers.

The Hangover Run on Sunday took place a little to the west of the main town and featured a relatively easy run through local countryside that ended up at a fast flowing river. Those wishing to save their legs were able to float down river for the last 800-m or so. A delightful lunch was served next to the “beach” at the edge of the river and the local barbecue stalls did a great job of feeding the hungry masses.

Full Moon Run 6½ took place on Monday night. Over 100 Hashers stayed on to partake. The word was well and truly out! The trail took people through some of the old parts of Chiang Rai and through various iconic temples to the outskirts of town. After some beautiful sunset views along the river, the trail meandered through karst scenery and through a cave to finish up at an isolated restaurant. A memorable Circle featuring two Harriette “nurses” administering the Down Downs followed with everyone being bussed back to town after midnight.