Briton praises Kuching as ‘best place’ for hashing
KUCHING: A British hasher has lavished praise on Kuching, saying the lush tropical rainforest, spectacular wildlife and indigenous plants made it the best place for hashing.
Alexander Hugh Jefferson, who is originally from Basingstoke, UK but has been living here for the past five years, said he could never forget the breathtaking views of sunset and the thick, luscious green forests on top of the hill during his first hash run at Kampung Petag, Jalan Mambong.
“Kuching is the best place to hash run. I’ve run in Penang, Johor Bahru and the UK. I was not a mountain hiker until I came here. I explored caves for the first time here,” said the 36year- old.
A teacher- turnedentrepreneur, Jefferson has been hashing for about five years and is Kuching Hash House Harriers Joint Master and Borneo Hash House HazardRiettes Assistant Whip.
He pointed out the hash is a non- competitive running social club whose activities have grown massively all over the world.
He does hash runs twice a week, covering between five to eight kilometers each time. During the runs, he would explore different jungles to see different things each time.
The runs, he added, can be challenging as hashers are exposed to fallen branches, steep roads, logs, muddy land, and animal bites.
He also noted that there are not many teenagers or youngsters involved in hashing here, although there are some children doing kids’ hash of two kilometers under the guidance of their parents.
Despite the challenges, Jefferson said the experience gained from hashing here made it worthwhile as Kuching has the best environment and ‘original’ jungles.
“It is the wonderland of ancient rainforest, home to primate species like orangutans, diverse and rare f lora and fauna, and cascading waterfalls.
“It makes you feel alive. If you want to try it, be prepared. Bring enough water, torchlight, ensure you stick to the rules, and follow the paper trail.”