Hares: Talking Head, Dick Head, Budweiser Belly & Chicken Hawk
Hounds: Predator, Skipper, Gumby, Bloodsucker, Yeti, Billy Graham, Woodswrecker, Uncle Fester, Mr. Pastry, The Navvy, G'n'T, Booby Trap, Mildew, Goat, Oh That Woman, Fugitive, Chief Longpole, Pirate, Miss Trunchbull, Gareth
Apres Hashers: Curry Queen, Dick, Steve, Paul, Karen
The fact that there were four hares, including the fearless Chicken Hawk, should have been a warning of what was in store for the hounds this week. After the huddle in Turner's yard, which included the usual Ascension hazards with special emphasis on slippery slopes and scratchy vegetation, it was off down the road. The FRB's went flying off and were the first to leave the road and head into the wilds, while some of the others followed along at a more sedate pace.
The going got tough from here on in. Lots of loose rocks. Faced with the choice of thorn or cactus, Gumby unwisely chose the cactus, and continued on with a few souvenirs. Mildew seems to have learned her lesson. After a fair stretch across the flats, the first challenge loomed. Up, up, up and then of course, if you go up, you must go down. While of course the FRBs led by Fugitive and Yeti scrambled down making it look easy, the rest used a wee bit more caution. Out came the hiking poles for Booby Trap and G'n'T. By the way, when is G'n'T going to get a proper pair of hash boots so the rest of us can quit worrying about her? Miss Trunchbull was not impressed with the climb down either. Little did she know that this was just to get her ready for the next hill! Our thanks to Predator and Talking Head who provided assistance for the ladies. Of course Talking Head seems to have developed a novel way of getting down ahead of the rest. Involved a lot of rocks tumbling and panic on the part of the rest!
After the mad scramble, we were rewarded with a welcome circle check. Chicken Hawk seems to think Gumby makes a nice resting pole. While some of the slower of the pack took the opportunity to recover waiting for Woodswrecker (welcome back) and Billy Graham to catch up, off went the runners. They like getting nice long breaks waiting for the rest to arrive, apparently. After the next circle check came an even bigger challenge. The group split up with the smarter hashers taking the longer, less steep and slippery route, while the runners and a few stragglers fought their way straight up to the top of the hill. Great view from up there, but of course an even tougher route down. Having practiced on the first scramble, everyone was quite proficient this time round, with the exception of Mr. Pastry, who has now discovered just how sharp the rocks on this little island can be.
Again, after the slippery slope, the runners were off across the flats, still going away from the starting point. Just how long was this hash going to be? Mildew decided to lead the slower folks in a singalong to help pass the time. Started out with a hymn, but the standard was quickly lowered with the Animals go Marching Two by Two. Seems that was what we looked like by that point! Just a bit of class added to the event!
As we finally reached the road, all were rewarded. The welcome sight of vehicles raised the spirits of the weary. Of course the FRBs, as well as a few determined slowpokes, turned their noses up at the easy way out, and continued on foot back to Turner's.
The smell of one of Curry Queen's delicious curries brought a smile to the faces of even the most tired, and soon all were enjoying the great food. Thanks again to the best curry chef around. A nice evening followed with the Navvy and Skipper supplying the musical entertainment. Great whistlers!
Great hash, guys. A challenge, breath-taking views, and a bit of fear thrown in just for good measure. Thanks for keeping us on our toes (and hands, and bottoms…)
Next Week: The entrance to the US Power Plant closest to Command Hill
Hares: Uncle Fester & Bloodsucker
