Get to Know a Hasher!

A “Drinking Club with a Running Problem”

THE/STUDIO: Introduce yourself. Tell our readers a little bit about who you are!

Dan: Hi, my name is Dan or “Dog” as my fellow hashers refer to me. I am a part of a worldwide running group called the Hash House Harriers. In my free time, I design patches that represent hashing events, kennels (our term for a group), and even for hashers themselves.

THE/STUDIO: This sounds like something I should be apart of! What does your group do?

Dan: We promote fitness in a fun, non-competitive way. We’re labeled as a “Drinking club with a running problem”. We started in 1938, long before the high dollar pub runs and obstacle races began. Anyone in any physical shape is encouraged to come have fun with us. We have over 2000 kennels across the globe, so you’ve most likely seen us run by and not know it! If you were to run or walk if you prefer) with us, you should expect: tongue in cheek humor, singing, beer (or beverage of your choice), silly nicknames, costume events, and an interesting way to exercise!

THE/STUDIO: That sounds like a blast! What have you learned since joining the Hash House Harriers?

Dan: Since I’ve joined in 2008, I’ve finally found a way to enjoy running. I’ve also found a networking opportunity beyond anything I’ve ever participated in. Never have I met such an accepting group.

THE/STUDIO: That’s awesome! You are making me want to join! What about the Hash House Harriers are you most proud of?

Dan: Our Red Dress Runs. Yes, you heard me right. Girls and guys alike running, jogging, or walking for charity and every last one of us doing it in a red gown.

THE/STUDIO: That must be a site to see! What are some of the greatest challenges you face being a Hasher?

Dan: Safety. Even when using appropriate crosswalks and high visibility clothing, we have to be vigilant for drivers not paying attention!

THE/STUDIO: Where do you see your group in 10 years?

Dan: Hopefully increasing in numbers. It seems people would rather pay high dollar to run on a treadmill than socially interact in mother nature’s beauty.

THE/STUDIO What type of legacy do you want to leave?

Dan: I want my patch designs to a revered art in the hash community.

THE/STUDIO: Your patch designs are very impressive! We should hire you! lol. What is the story behind the custom product that you produced with THE/STUDIO?

Dan: My current project is actually a reprint of the patch the represents my hash name, Dog.

THE/STUDIO: How are you going to use this custom product?

Dan: As us hashers travel around the globe, we trade patches with friends, buy kennel patches to represent where we’ve been, or earn them by doing events. A lot of us wear our patches on our kilts (for cooling down after runs) or our happy coats (a robe like garment).

THE/STUDIO: Do you have any upcoming events that our community members can attend?

Dan: Absolutely! http://gotothehash.net/ or search hash house harriers + your current city.

THE/STUDIO: Exercise and beer! I am sold ! I am signing up this week! lol. If you are a charity is there anything our community members can do to help?

Dan: Sign up for the next Red Dress Run in your area.

Thank you Dog (Dan) for sharing your story with us!