Run No.97 10 July 2016

Scribe: Not Long Enough

Hare: Chotto Matte Ne Co-Hares: Cum Lauder, Knee Knocker, and That's a Mouthful Logistics Specialist/Chef: CliffHanger Start Time: 1400ish, met at 1300 Start Location: Just inside the main gate across from the Chief's Club Weather: Sunny (but Hot) Run Type: A to B Runners: 50

This run was the second time 4H ran the Yokosuka Naval base. The first being almost five years ago and as far as I know 4H is the only hash house anywhere that has run a hash on an active US military base. At first blush, a naval base seems like a strange locale for a hash. The base has a multitude of rules that make hashing...what's a good word? Let's say unique. Possibly the strangest of base obstacles we faced was a regulation that allows runners just one earphone while running. But while the headset policy was weird, the strict security on base, sadly, prevented one of our number from joining us as her pass was not processed in time. But despite the disappointment of losing a runner and the quirky rules, it was worth the herculean effort put forth by our hares as the route was both scenic and unique. The trail laid out for us took us past the navy's ships and their repair facilities, through base housing and by the commissary, as well as up to the top of command hill and back down again.

The day started with us gathering at main gate where the guards handed out golden tickets (our passes). We started our run from just inside the gate and in front of the Chief's club at around 1400. We followed a well-marked trail to almost every corner of the base. Having worked on the Yokosuka base for nearly four years, I was surprised to be led down paths I was not aware existed. Halfway through the run we assaulted command hill. The hill is a staple of just about every 5k or triathlon on base as the grueling climb is used to test competitors, but I was shocked that our hares decided to lead us up the 50+ steps near the top of the hill that lead to the actual summit. Command Hill is the best real estate on base for housing with sweeping views of Tokyo bay. So of course all the housing at the top of the steps is occupied by the more senior members of the navy serving in Japan. At the top of the stairs we found ourselves in the neighborhood of those senior officers and their families. A particularly daring choice by our hares as rowdy hashers screaming "on-on" is not something I imagine Admirals like to hear on their Sunday afternoons. But we made it up to the top and then back down without incident.

In total the run was close to 8km by my estimate but for this runner, who is too old and too fat to be running around in midday Tokyo heat, it felt much much longer. Luckily there was a reward at the end. And oh what a reward! Nothing less than a feast fit for kings. We finished the run at Gazebo 9 on the waters of the Tokyo bay, where extra tents and chairs had been set up for our use as we gorged on delicious food and beverage. Hot from the grill we were served steak (2 different marinades), chicken drumsticks, fish (salmon), and shrimp. There were appetizers before the food was ready which consisted of mini-sandwiches, vegetable trays, and assorted fruits. The copious amount of side dishes included homemade mac and cheese, couscous, quiches, and other delicious treats that the food coma following the feast has unfortunately erased from my memory. For dessert, a cake had been made with 4H's logo on it. Oh! And one must not forget the alcohol. By my count, there were three types of wine, a ridiculous assortment of beers, cider, some mixers that I didn't get a chance to try, and all American Capri-Suns (or maybe it was some Chinese knockoff, whatever, it still felt like Americana). There might have been some water too. I’m told Cliffhanger was responsible for the feast and if true I’m not sure why our Mismanagement ever has anyone else prepare food.

All said and done the hash was a smashing success. We owe a debt of gratitude to our hares for all the preparation that went into this run as well as the numerous volunteers from the base that acted as our escorts allowing us non-navy types to get through security.