Phnom Penh Hash

I started running in February 2010. I had never been much of an athlete before then, and I still don't consider myself one, but I have come to really enjoy running. I spent a lot of time browsing through my Lonely Planet Cambodia travel guide and found information about running in Phnom Penh with the Hash House Harriers. Because the city streets here aren't very hospitable to running and I don't like the gym (despite my membership at The Place, the super posh gym of the Khmer elite), I decided to try out the Hash my first Sunday here. I loved it immediately.

Every Sunday I've been here I've joined Australians, Brits, Americans, Cambodians and ex-pats and travelers from all over the world to run six miles through the Cambodian countryside. It's hot and difficult, but there is no encouragement like little Khmer children laughing and calling out "Hello! How are you!"

Yesterday I received my honorary Hash name, which means I am officially initiated into the worldwide Hash House Harriers. My name is "Legover"--a reference to my flexibility party trick.


There is always a lot of singing and beer drinking when the run is finished

Me and my new Hash friend Kristyn (from Missouri!) receiving our Hash names

Yes, those are toilet seats



Delightful post run dinner

Doused in beer and sweat but happy to be initiated!

I'm so glad that I participated in the Hash. All of my connections here in Cambodia outside of my work came from it. It is nice to come to a foreign place and immediately feel welcome, as I did when I joined the Hash three weeks ago. I'll definitely continue whenever I'm abroad and looking for a run, friends or both.