The 26th Quadrangular Inter-Club Hash Run celebrated friendship, fitness and a Malaysian tradition worth passing on.
The rain came down just before we were due to set off. The paths would be wet and slippery, but by 5 pm the skies had cleared. Hashers from the Royal Klang Club, Melaka Club, Royal Selangor Club and host Royal Lake Club (RLC) were ready to go. There were old friends to greet, a trail to follow and, later, a Mexican fiesta to enjoy. A little rain was never going to spoil the 26th Quadrangular Inter-Club Hash Run on 26 September 2026.
For readers unfamiliar with hashing, a “hash” is a group run or walk along a trail set by fellow members, known as hares. Finding your way is part of the fun. You exercise, explore places you might otherwise never see and finish among people who are pleased you came. There are no timing chips or medals to worry about. A brisk walker can enjoy the outing just as much as a fast runner.
Hashing has a Malaysian beginning. The Hash House Harriers started in Kuala Lumpur in 1938 and grew into an international movement. Its origins give Malaysians something to be proud of, but its lasting appeal is best understood by joining a run. People from different walks of life share the trail, help one another along and laugh together afterwards.
That spirit was everywhere at RLC. Registration brought a warm welcome, an event T-shirt, hot tea and curry puffs. Veteran hasher Peter Leong and Ranmit Singh led the hares and adjusted the route for the slippery conditions. Their care helped us enjoy the trail and return safely, ready for the rest of the evening.
The post-run gathering soon filled with stories and Hash songs. There were tacos, watermelon and cold beer, while the traditional “on-downs” gave the crowd a chance to thank those who had helped and gently tease a few familiar faces. The General Masters of the four clubs had their turn sitting on blocks of melting ice: Edward Terng of RLC, Amarjit Singh of the Royal Selangor Club, Lawerance Yeo representing Royal Klang Club’s Anil Menon, and Naga of the Melaka Club. The crowd sang and cheered them on. Such rituals may sound peculiar to someone new to hashing, but the shared humour helps turn acquaintances into friends.
Then came the Grand Party in the club’s banquet hall. Colourful ponchos and sombreros carried the Mexican theme indoors, while a good Malaysian makan brought everyone to the tables. Each club contributed entertainment, drawing cheers from across the hall. The traditional boat race added to the excitement. Everywhere I looked, people were talking, laughing and enjoying the company of hashers from the other clubs. What a splendid evening it was.
I found myself thinking about what hashing has given me. I began at 40 and continued running until I was 70. Now, at 77, I walk briskly during Hash runs and take my own walks at Bukit Kiara whenever I can. Those decades of exercise laid a strong foundation for my fitness and wellbeing. Just as valuable are the friendships and the pleasure of turning up, working up a sweat and sharing a meal afterwards.
Many of us who have enjoyed hashing for years are growing older, while fewer young people appear to be joining our clubs. That makes the weekly runs especially precious. Celebration runs bring everyone together in style, but the regular outings help us keep active and connected. We can run or walk at a pace that suits us, catch up with friends and welcome newcomers. I hope younger Malaysians, too, will discover how much enjoyment can begin with a pair of shoes and an invitation to come along.
I left RLC with wet shoes, happy memories and renewed affection for a community that has been part of the best years of my life. Judging by the smiles around the hall, many others felt the same. Our thanks to Edward Terng and the entire Royal Lake Club team for bringing four clubs together and making everyone feel welcome. You gave us a fine run, a splendid party and an evening we will remember with pleasure. Tahniah, RLC!
On On
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