As I mentioned yesterday, I decided to forego the sanctioned Hash trail and make a hike more in keeping with my preferences. The “sane” group I normally shortcut with made the trip out to Olongapo and did the first portion of the Hare’s trail. I opted out of doing that as well. I wasn’t alone out in the wild though–two of the female Hashers followed my lead and joined me. “Followed” might be an overstatement since both of them walk faster than I do, but they paused at intersections and stayed within earshot, so it worked out fine. You know, I also use the term “shortcut” loosely. For example, my trail was considerably longer than the official trail. When I shortcut I’m avoiding climbs and descents that I consider too difficult and dangerous. Although yesterday I was never on any portion of Guenter’s trail, I also climbed up Kalaklan ridge, just from a different location. Came down my own way too. I was in the general vicinity though.
Almost 10K, including a long climb up to the ridgeline.No thank you, neighbor. I won’t be riding in the Hashmobile today.The first 3K or so were along the National highway.Then we turned off the highway onto this “road” and began our slow, but steady, climb to the top.Oh, and when I say we, I’m referring to my fellow hikers, Salty Cum, and Cum In My Basement.It’s not so steep, but a long journey up. There is no easy way to the top of Kalaklan, but this way is perhaps the least difficult.There were some really bad places on the road, but mostly it was like this.Still trudging upward.A bay view along the way.And Olongapo City from on high.Leaving the road and heading for the way back down to Barretto.An action shot. Hiking is pretty damn exciting, isn’t it?A creek in the woods. Just upstream from here the locals get their water. Saw several carrying 2 large-capacity containers tied to the ends of a board and bringing them down the trail on their shoulders. Damn, what a life!Our destination, Barrio Barretto, is in sight!Cookie stop.Oh, and in the background are the type of water containers I was talking about.A final descent through this village.Then back on the mean streets of Barretto.On Home was at Queen Victoria, but they don’t have a kitchen. I satiated my hunger with some take-out fish and chips from this shop across the street.
Some beer refreshments and then the Hash circle commenced. I wasn’t surprised when I was called down to sit on the ice and enjoy some birthday cake in the Hash tradition.
It is not as pleasant as it looks.Trust me on that.
Relive the hike here if you like:
Anyway, I missed the camaraderie of the Hash trail, but have no regrets about exercising prudence and doing it my way.
3 thoughts on “My personal Hash”
Looks to have been a good, solid hike. Hats off. And Happy post-Birthday! Hope you’re enjoying the start of your 67th year.
B-day cake looks miserable
QP, it was. The worst part was getting cold beer poured on my head. And then trying to wash out egg, flour, and sugar from my head in a bathroom sink…
Looks to have been a good, solid hike. Hats off. And Happy post-Birthday! Hope you’re enjoying the start of your 67th year.
B-day cake looks miserable
QP, it was. The worst part was getting cold beer poured on my head. And then trying to wash out egg, flour, and sugar from my head in a bathroom sink…