VTH3 #797

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6 August 2017
LONG HAI - “One step too far?”


Hares: Mr. T, Secs
Hash Flashers:  Paddy, Boozer, Radio Wave
Ringmaster: Basil
Report: Secs

With blue skies and glorious sunshine, 31 Hashers boarded the bus to Long Hai. We disembarked at the picturesque Ngoc Xuong Ecotourism Area where Hares, Secs and Mr. T, advised that the trail was a steep 200m climb over rocks and steps, it was suggested that people take their time and stop to enjoy the spectacular views, especially from the temple at the summit. The descent would take us down the other side of the mountain, through the rainforest and eventually out to a local village and onto the road to loop back to the starting point.

So “On-On” we went, along a dirt path before quickly encountering the relentless rocky steps up the to temple. Boozer, Secs and Short Wave were first to reach the summit - despite Boozer’s constant whinging about sore calves. The rest of the Hashers took the Hares advice taking it easy, stopping to enjoy the stunning views and take pictures.

The initial descent was almost as arduous as the climb up with a steep decline into the rainforest, however, it soon leveled out and became a pleasant walk under the shade of the jungle canopy. We passed babbling brooks, and jumped over fast flowing jungle streams, giving the opportunity to cool off by splashing the refreshing water on our faces. We exited the forest onto a concrete path which led us across the foothills, down some more steps and finally back in to Long Hai town, where we joined the road for the final 3km back to the Down-Down.

A slight concern as Basil realised a couple of Hashers hadn’t made it to the summit. Diligent as ever, he called FRBs to check back at the Down-Down to see if they had turned back. However, back at the Down-Down Buddha was the only one to have turned back and he hadn’t seen anyone. Not to worry, just as we were about to send out a search party we received a message to say that they had arrived at the top and would take their time to complete the trail.

Slowly but surely, the Hashers arrived back at the down down exhausted, thirsty and hungry. Thankfully, there was plenty of ice cold San Miguel and soft drinks, in addition to delicious pancakes, BBQ Pork ribs and fruit contributed by various generous Hashers.

The light was fading so Ringmaster Basil, who was shepherding the remaining 2 stragglers back, called ahead to say that we should go ahead and take the team photo before it was too dark. We took the picture and 30 minutes later all the Hashers were safely back and Basil called to order the circle.

First up in the circle were the Hares, Mr. T and Secs, and returnee Lady D was invited to rate the trail. She described the trail as a “doozy”, clarifying that “doozy” meant outstanding, it was the perfect trail to help lose some of the kg she’d gained whilst back in Australia, rating it 10/10.

Next up were the Hash virgins; Ron, a Welsh/Australian, who’d heard about through a friend who knew Faulty Brakes; and Gordon, brother of Mr.T. Both agreed it was a great trail but perhaps a bit challenging for the first one.

Now time for the returnees. This week we had 5 returnees with various excuses: Paddy - “off in another land”; WiFi - “weather”; Lady D - “in Australia”; Ice Water - “I don’t know why” and finally Ms Huong - “lazy and busy”

In the sinners circle this week were: Buddha for turning back and not completing the trail; Secs for briefly going the wrong way despite being a hare (again!) ; and Gordon for wearing sandals; and finally, Zidane, for wearing a new T-Shirt (?!), any excuse to down a beer.

Next, Faulty Brakes announced that next week’s trail had already been set and would be starting from the same place in Long Hai, but would be a much more sedate trail, mostly flat with the Down-Down by the beach. He reminded everyone to bring hats, sunscreen and swimming gear.

Finally, Basil and Faulty Brakes, reminded everyone that the 800th run would be on the 27 August at Long Son Island. There would be food provided at the Down-Down and then we would return to Hon Ru Ri, giving people time to go home and shower, before meeting at 8pm at Sky Garden, Phan Chu Trinh. Beer will be provided by San Miguel and we will be entertained by live music. The new 800 run T-Shirts will also be distributed on the 800th run. Look out for an email requesting numbers for the 800 run so we know how much food to buy.

We’ll meet again on Sunday, as always, at Hon Ru Ri:  2 pm for 2.30 pm start - in any weather!
On On

VTH3 #797 PHOTO GALLERY