What Can I Say about this elixir?

Home away from Home

2011-09-26T22:12:00.002+02:00

And that's exactly what the Hash House in the Prater is to our drinking club with the obvious problem. Finger Me and Hashflash Media Moron #1 My Pint of View carried out a run in very well known territory in the backwoods of the Prater, not far from the Lusthaus and of course the Gösser Bierinsel om June the 6th.

Here, there and everywhere

That part of the Prater has been so well covered with Hash runs in the Past that it is a bit tricky to come up with anything worth reporting, apart from there were no horses this time and thank you RA, no rain even.
The main reat of the evening came at the On In where we had the pleasure to sit outside in that marverllous garden. And I think that I thoroughly enjoyed a Wurstsalal.

No more mickey

Make up your mind and try out the Gösser Bierinsel yourselves.

On Out.

Short and Sweet

2011-09-16T22:57:00.001+02:00

Moosehead, a man of many talents and already a blast of our Hashing past herei Vienna (remember his famous Punsch runs in past December months!) came back out of his hiding and with girlfriend and dogs invited the Hash for a short run spiced up with two beet stops, one in the garden of his trailerhome in Möllersdorf and the second one in another cute garden a bit further up the road in Guntramsdorf. The track was not much to write home about but the beers were cool which - let's emphasize this again - is THE asset in the spring and summertime.

A typcial Vindobona Hash beerstop

Slightly Altered

2011-09-16T22:29:00.000+02:00

Hash Blog is reborn
This won't be the last posting
I'm more than certain

(Sort of an optimistic Haiku)

That's what it's all about

The Beatles aren't here

2011-09-16T22:18:00.000+02:00

But who needs the Beatles when you can have the Vindobonian real thing? I am talking about none other than the Great and Glorious Lord Glo Balls (OVH) who, on May the 23rd, made us return to the site of the pinnacle in his local Hashing career. Lovely weather, even the trail was halfway decent (not clockwise or anticlockwise like in Probstdorf, heh heh) and the crowd were in fine form. And, thank you RA, the weather was sunny. Alongside some backwaters of the Lobau and then WAY over fields of con and goldit took quite a while to find the way out of this field and forest maze.

And yes, old Joystick enjoyed a New Shoe Tea Bag the tradtional Hashers way.

On Out.

Out for lunch?

2011-09-16T21:52:00.001+02:00

Well, most likely. The time has come to end my silence and I will try to come up again with wot's hot and wot's not at the Vindobona Hash. How about this for a pastime next summer? But please, no Bike Hashes!

Dutch courage

2011-09-16T21:48:00.003+02:00

What more can you ask for from a bright and sunny day than to be forced to run from a carpark that lies right next to a very busy motorway? Flying Dutchman the Great ordered us all on over to the Brigittenauer Brücke carpark on May the 16th and then it was on off across the Bridge into the far and wirde luckily further on into the back end of the Donaupark. It was left to none other that Mr. Smile G-String to provide the energetic spark that would eventually lead the pack over to the Obere Alte Donau and then back into the maze of backroads that would carry everyone back to the carpark.

Having a barbeque at the Donauinsel (next to the carpark) is very popular and one is advised to reserve once such grillplace in advance as they are quite popular. Though that area is also supposed to be free of traffic, Pino the Frog drove up the Dutchmans Family car to the site, wanting to unload the beer and other commodities. He escaped from being fined by the ever friendly police men solely as he apparently had just gotten his drivers license. Or so. "Let this be a warning to you, son". Unquote.
And the rest was beer.

On Out.

Hsah Dinner

The Moment of Clarity

2011-06-14T20:20:00.047+02:00

Another corner of lovely Vienna that houses good Heurigens and great scenery is Strebersdorf, out there across the Danube and on the way to Korneuburg. Being a much preferred area by our dearly beloved GrandMeister St.Norman, that area on bottom of the Bisamberg saw many a run that either had a large loop to the right or to the left leading all the way up to the hilltop.

To-nites trail on May 9 took a left turn after the start, leaving behind the local cemetery and not long after did the uphill campaign start and that also include the sly use of a regular false trail (well done Hares!) which eventually ended at a very well known Checkpoint in the middle of the vineyards and that also gave way to a familiar look. And, it was pleasant to see Returnee Squeeze Box Mama.

There it is!

By the way, orientation has become a lot more complex around the area since the Powers that be (neither LGB nor St.Norman) took away the famed Sender am Bisamberg. Anyhow. Not intruding into another well known running area on top of the Bisamberg (runs that start from the other side at the Elisabethhöhe) the trail ran back along the local Kellergassen and to the car park eventually. Improvised circle by the RA Richard Kopf (super late cummer). OnIn at the nearby Gasthaus Weinbeisser. 50 % off on Mondays!

Listen to what the man says

On Out.

Watch what happens!

What's next?

2011-06-10T08:49:00.013+02:00

I am still lacking behind with some writeups which will follow in due course. I am also trying - not too hard, but still - to keep this mainly Hashrelated Blogs lively with the addition of the odd muzak thang, amongst other things. Do give the Van Wilder Drinking Buddy Game a try. Right click and choose "open in new window" or "open in new tab".

More to be added shortly. Thanks for being you.

Abstracto

2011-06-04T20:08:00.040+02:00

The Kahlenbergerdorf, located somehow at an northeastern angle of Vienna, houses some nice Heurigens as well as the Jungfernsteig. That is an ascending slope leading uphill to the lovely church on top of the hill (Kirche am Leopoldsberg), and I am writing about a very steep uphill run that quickly after the start turned into a walk. The only notable exceptions on Monday, May the 2nd who actually managed to do some uphill running were Just Justin and Big John's Son. After just 2 kilometres we arrived on top of the hill at the church, enjoying great views over the city.

gaping heroes

King Ralph and Pommes mit Mayo caught up just before the Song Stop, after this it was on off to an enjoyable round along some of the higher regions of the 19th district. Steep descents - of course! - and much fun was had by all. On back downhill eventually towards the carpark and the circle right next to the regularly and heavily frequented RAILWAY LINES. Here's to Ice ´Queen who proved to be fit enough to set a kinda strenuous track (first 1,6 ks) and then did the whole thing again with you lot.

Somewhere in Vienna

On Out. Haven't had Brand X in a while, nein?

Back to the Egg

2011-06-02T23:21:00.000+02:00

One quality that my dearly beloved wife and I displayed for many a year and lotsa Hashruns was to come up with new and/or hardly used locations anf cough up nice runs for you lot. Partly due to time constraints for us Ice Queen and Slush Puppie took over this noble task and I herewith credit these two for being inventive enough to show the group once known as the Worlds Worst Hash all around the place within reach of Vienna that there is more than the Rahlgasse in the 6th district, par exemple.

Found one!

Sulz im Wienerwald and the adjecent assembly of houses called Wöglerin (inlcuding a fine Gasthaus) were the starting point for the Easter Monday run on April 25th. Lots of forest and extended meadows and a short thunderstorm at the run's start were the ingredients for a long run around the area that included egg checks (look for one easter egg each at one check) and the old fashioned egg liquor check (mind you to bring along at least a second bottle next year please!).

Well...

The circle happened in between two huge piles of logs and featured a door mat in Union Jack colours.
OnIn at the Gasthaus Wöglerin.

On Out.

Up where you belong

2011-05-19T23:35:00.001+02:00

The Great Grüß Di A Gott Wirt out there in Sievering traditionally marks the beginning of the Vindobonian Monday Run Season, albeit with a few minor disagreements between a chosen few about the actual date. Anyhow, Monday the 18th of April saw some gerat weather, MUCH traffic inside Vienna that caused my Co-Hare Munk to set the trail on his own as I was very late, at least I could make up by quickly taking the cooled Sekt Bottles up the Hill to the drink- and Songstop at the Habsburgwarte, highest elevation in Vienna (541 metres).

We sure like running on Monday evenings

The run had to start punctually to avoid a return in the darkness and, in old cameraderie, the owner of the Grüß Di A Gott Wirt opened up his premises especially for us. What can I say? Everyone and foremost visitor and former Grand Meisterette Mindphuck made their way up the hill despite the very steep climb, the Sektstop and the singing were just fine and the way down the hill seems to become a favourite for most.
Very latecomer Lady Go Diver on a short visit from the Netherlands joined the fold for the circle and the On After.

Viennas highest point

On Out.

Peace Piece

2011-04-29T22:23:00.001+02:00

The next run on Sunday , April 10 was held in Berndorf, Moron growing up place if I remember that right. Again I could not partake yet the Cardinal Munk (OVH) promised me to come up with some Cardinal Chatter. Let's see.

Segway anyone?

Look for Life with the Moons

That is life

2011-04-29T21:56:00.002+02:00

Sunday April the 3rd saw a run staged in and around the Wiener Zentralfriedhof, something that the Cardinal Munk (OVH) and I wanted to do years ago already yet somehow never happened. Credit to No Balls Prize and his affiliates to see the run through eventually. Pity I couldn't make that run. From the pics of this run I can just tell happy faces. Are we ready for the resurrection?

Save the last dance for us

A fitting song, somehow

On out.

Get on your Boots

2011-04-27T21:20:00.000+02:00

All change. As much as I like daylight saving time (Sommerzeit) my wife hates it. In the past the changing of the clocks led to a few funny situations where Hashers either arrived much too early or rather late-ish to the run on that date.
This seemed to have not been the case outside the American International School here in Vienna somewhere in the 29th district on Sunday, March 27. A good crowd assembled in the non-existing carpark to start the run on up.
All the way up the Salmannsdorfer Straé and then into the forest heading for the Höhenstraße nonstop fun for the fit ones was guaranteed. Crossing the Höhentrasse and getting stopped by a short Checkback brought us back abd eventually to the Viewpoint at the Häuserl am Roan not far from our annual refuge at the Grüß Di A Gott Wirt.

On over the Höhenstrasse and back into the woods heading for the way home featured the way down some sort of steep hill and an old fashioned cobblestone road in town again. Only to face the following upon our return to the carpark:


Beer in PET bottles, a novelty to Voenna.

During the ensuing circle three new boots could be welcomed:


Not genuine Ostriches

And that was that.

On Out.

All Tree

2011-04-14T23:23:00.000+02:00

up at the Wotrubakirche in the lovely surroundings of the Maurer Berg in Viennas 23rd district on Sunday, March 20th. I couldn't contribute much to this run since I was not in attendance yet there were more than enough Hares (up to six?) so fun was had by all as you and I can tell by these pics.

Go Green

Wotrubakirche in Vienna and some Vindobona Hashers

Too deep!

Hang out time

2011-04-11T21:50:00.002+02:00

March 15 - Schweizerhaus opening day. Beers unlimited, same old company of the drunkards microcosmos and oompah muzak. Can it get any better than this? Thanks to all that came by and helped us to celebrate.

Here are a few assorted pics for all absent friends like Minuteman et al. Thinking of you and raising a pint in your honor.


Re-sa-wirt - Reserved

The conclusion!


On Out.

Ka Boom Part 2

2011-04-11T21:32:00.001+02:00

The second and last part of the great powderfactory run series out there in Blumau happened on Sunday, March 13. I didn't have time to come to the first one last year so I was quite curious what to expect from an area of ruins in all sorts and forms, debris, tunnels and forest. Take a few pics as example that the Hares Deodorant and Knödel mit Ei made sure that everyone was served, including a fine songstop next to the water.

They call it a bargain

A fine trail that included all forms of ruins, tunnels and forest and a beer stop in Deodorants garden, of course one had to climb up and down ladders again to reach the well cooled beer afterwards.
Some ten minutes later it was on back to the carpark with a circle in the wind.

Not really the Vindobona Hashhouse

OnOut.

Where did you get that nice suntan?

2011-03-25T20:42:00.001+01:00

No reports for the runs on Feb. 27 and March 6 respectively which I both could not attend. Rather coming full circle with my own Hashing past which is the annual Ski Week Solidarity run that rather unusually was held after the actual Ski Week as we were on holiday ourselves then (but not taing part in the Hash Ski Week).

Similar to the other annual run that I am involved with this one has two main directions where the trail could lead one. More often than not the tradition of a live run is being uphold in the area around Karlsplatz and Naschmarkt, yet four years ago long time Cohare Munk instigated running through the AKH which, for all Non-Viennese is a real big and I do mean big hospital with wide corridors. Great to use once. This time we took off to set ta live trail again from the Votivkirche, covering parts of the extended inside park of the Alte AKH (great Christmas market area!) and got close to the actual AKH hospital but stayed outside and headed back to the starting point by taking a few backroads through the 9th and then the 1st district.

Come rain or shine

Exact run setting time was thirty minutes and another exact ten minutes later Tickpleaser and Mind the Gap arrived as the FRBs, the former really eager to catch us. 10 more or so followed in due course, the most remarkable onew (Solidarity virgin) were Needleman and returnee Death to Flying Things.

OnIn at the Stieglambulanz nearby.

On Out.

Where there is no such thing

2011-03-25T20:01:00.000+01:00

A Vindobonian Hash Ski Week that not only should be copyrighted after the success they've had for more than twenty years by attracting Hashing Ski affiliates from near and far is also being preceded by the now infamous Blue Moon Run through some Red lighted terrain in Viennas 2nd district. This all took place on Friday, Feb 25.
The Volkertplatz which also houses the Volkertmarkt, one of Viennas great street markets, yet again was the starting point and the Cafe Na Und the OnIn for to-nite. Familiar and not so familiar faces came by, at the start of the run it was about 20 diehards and on off into the second district. Not so much new or uncommon to write about the track, only when I found out that the Hares Flounder and Multiple Entry had the audacity to exactly re-enact last years happenings. Meaning the same trail, the same house of ill repute somewhere in Viennas 2nd district (with a hefty increase on the beer price, last year I think they charged a fiver for the small bottle to 7 Euros and 50 cents this time, a fifty percent increase!). And the second beerstop up in nearby Pussy Schumis appartment.
The short circle in the cold with no police appearance this time in startk contrast to the last two years just featured a few overly curious boys from the neighbourhood. And then it was on off to the delicacies (?) of the Cafe Na Und's kitchen

On Out to Hashers Night on the Town!

Slightly unlive

2011-03-14T22:07:00.000+01:00

Live run? You mean that boldest of Hash traditions where the Hare gets a ten minute head start and then the so called runners will follow, intending to catch and strip the Hares? There once was a proud such tradition here in Vindobona, yet with everyone getting older and slower this tradition was more or less being put to indefinite rest.

I'l show you your Live Trail!

Hash Lash Mid the Gap had to announce a Live Run on Sunday, February the 20th starting off somewhere at the Alte Donau and in high hopes a few faithful ones turned up, expecting only the best. Alas, in the best from of a cruel hoax (yes, we do have a Hoaxster here on the Hash!) Joystick couldn't help but rush his charming wife Joyride to the airport to send her off to the Kashmir region again wehere she will to continue to work for Medecins sans Frontiers for a bit. And set a dead trail thereafter (look for trail types in the link). The short reconciliation with this disappointment was to find another watering hole in the 20th district, which is the wonderful Gasthaus zur Alm. Apart from that it was a loop through the 20th district and on back the long way over the Reichsbrücke and back to the carpark. The Great and Glorious GrandMeister greeted MOM, Cardinal Munk and yours truly with a phrase something like "Did you guys have an extra beerstop?"as he seems to be flying uo and down each Hashtrail like a young god these days.

Clamps! Clamps!!

Anyhow, short circle in the cool and that was that.
On Out.

The Original and...

... a coverversion

The Beauty and the East

2011-03-07T21:30:00.001+01:00

Happy New Year the East Asian Way (The Chinese Way?) with more of the same i.e. meet up at Rahlgasse in Viennas 6th district, run a bit thru very well known area and enjoy some taste food at a nearby Asian restaurant, Hares being Staning There and Slusg Puppie. Don't get me wrong, all of this is very likable. It's just.... winter and the urge for environment when you DO make up your mind to meander around aimlessly should be less the city but slightly more the forest area. Yet all of this is only my two cents of course. Bet all participants had a rolicking good time and stuffed themselves near to blow up status at the On After. It's all speculation since I couldn't make this run. Anyhow.

It's Chinese New Year

May the year of the rabbit
Bring health, peace and joy

On Out


The Revolution starts with a cool cheap beer

Joyful in Happyland

2011-03-04T23:10:00.000+01:00

All seemed happy and everyone seemed to be cheerful down in the Happyland area in Klosterneuburg on February the 6th. A rare chance to put oneself to a Haring caring treat by the charming Bony M. and Hare regular Ice Queen. Sans moi as I had family obligations. No run report this time, maybe just a couple of pics.

The Path is clear


One true Hashhound

On out.

Raise your Gaze

2011-02-15T21:36:00.000+01:00

So it was Wiener Neudorf revisited, this time by Sex Energy and Casting Couch on January the 30th. The meetingpoint at the local Music School (the Christoph Migazzi Haus) caused a little confusion amongst attendes on where to park their vehicles but as soon as the run started everybody seemed to be there.

Though situated really close to a main motorway there is a smallish beauty to the place namely a small little rest of a forest alongside the Mödlingbach. This way we took on loads of snow and ice and at main checkpoint it was on off into the distance all the way to Laxenburg, home of the IIASA and workplace of quite a few, past and present Hashers. A gentle walkers trail was being offered there which only the usual suspects took (no names shall be mentioned, just the local powers that be) and for the rest it was a bit further on into the fields along the railway (it was a first for me to see a VERY old-shaped Laxenburg railway station) and after a while there was a loop leading back to the far end of Biedermannsdorf where, at one point, we had a Sturmstop many years ago. Minuteman, where are you when you are needed? Please come back, all is forgiven.

On the way to Laxenburg

The last part was quite a casual jog back onto the main road on over the bridge across the Südautobahn where Munk and Tickpleaser unsucessfully tried to block me off from overtaking them. Well, at least Tickpleaser motive was worthy as he had done 25 kms on that morning for training purposes for this years Vienna Marathon.

On back at the carpark Sex Energy and little Fallen Angel joined the fold, the circle was shortened considerably due to the temperature and even the local law enforcement officers were mild on us when I pushed my innocent little kid in front of them. The On In afterwards (a sort of supersized Chinese/Japanese Establishment), albeit only being opened last year in November, must really have seen better times for the service was sloppy and the free unlimited drinks weren't on offer anymore. Boo for that.

Nice run though. On out.

Am I fixated on Fusion Music or what? What a beautiful song. Gayle Moran does the vocals. Look for the Cee Dee.

Down to you

2011-02-07T13:57:00.002+01:00

R.I.P. Gary Moore and thank you. It all comes down to good music.

On out.

Completely objective and unbiased

2011-02-02T21:22:00.000+01:00

Stockerau was the place again for the run on Sunday, Jan. 23, the Hares being SuperMOM and Root CAnal. Apparently a two hour long exercise out in the lingering cold. At least there were no mossies around like last year in July when they were all over the place then. Not very much that I can say about this run since I was not present. This is where family and I went instead.

Sing us another one

To-days music recommendation comes from Hash Flash Extraordinaire My Pint of View.

On Out.

Let's have a bit of music

2011-02-02T21:04:00.001+01:00

Unlike very many of my contemporaries I have never set foot on African soil. Just to point out the beauty and inspiration that - for instance - Egyptian Music had on two regarded Gentlemen (It's an old chestnut I know but still darn pretty):

Going down south a bit further, have a look at these two (Stewart Copeland and Ray Lema):

And obviously, not to underestimate the influence of African Beer on mankind.

Everybody loves the Sunshine

2011-01-31T23:27:00.001+01:00

The rerun of a rerun of a rerun was staged in the Lobau, somewhere behind the Autokino on January the 16th. The Lobau is an area where you can't do much wrong in terms of setting a beautiful run and, back at where Lord Balls was anointed to the OVH (Order of the Vindobona Hash) the Hares Mind the Gap and Tickpleaser set a long and pleasant trail. I was very pleased to see Squeeze Box Mama again after a long absence. Good health to you herewith.

Everybody loves the Sunshine

Like every time out there I lost orientation after a while but the beauty of it all made up for that. The entire Marathon Family (parents + 2 kid(d)s came by and after some 1 1/2 hours it was on back to the circle with the usual amount of dog crap with which - of course! - my shoes made acquaintance. Thanks a LOT!

You know his name, look up his number!

On Out.

Dump it

2011-01-27T22:58:00.000+01:00

That of course refers to the annual tradition of our Christmas trees here in Vienna which usually get thrown away on Epiphany Day (Jan.6) . Ice Queen and Slush Puppie have turned this custom into a Hash tradition by encouraging everyone to either bring their own trees or simply pick them up from a disposal site alongside the streets somewhere. Anyhow, here comes another report straight from the horse's mouth i.e. Slush Puppie. A little translative effort added by yours truly.

Quote:" In all due briefness (according to the runs shortness, which for its part marked the 6th edition of the Dump your Christmas tree in Vindobonian Hash History) it has to be noticed that Hares Ice Queen and Slush Puppie were not the only ones who disposed of their Christmas trees. Upon the Hares' arrival in front of the Votivkirche (and knowing from countless poor murder mysterys that each culprit comes back to the scene of his first crime) the church doors were wide open and inviting for a visit.

The Hares could see a young man who was visibly struggling to carry a Christmas tree of a minimum four metre height out of the Church. Everyone who happens to know this neo-gothic church not just from the commemorative Full Moon Tee-Shirt (50th run) will be able to acknowledge that a Christmas tree of four metres height is looking negligibly small inside. Yet, Mr. Disposer of the Christmas tree still had a lot of work ahead of him. When that Gentleman started to work on a Christmas tree of a minimum 8 metres of height to dispose of this one as well we offered our help, after all we were auxiliaries in a certain sense. This sadly was not the case as the Gentleman hadn't read the VH3 Schedule and was simply doing his job.

An invitation to join in the Dump Your Christmas Tree run was declined and in the end we left him alone again after a bit of support work with two more Christmas trees. Presumably he is still recovering from the stresses and strains and is just spending a three week rehab stay in Bad Schallerbach to treat his herniated disc.

Towards 3 p.m. and very unpunctually Hashers were arriving (IceMoon with her two kids being the most attractive Returnee in a long time). Hardly anyone was armed with a Christmas Tree, yet there was a vast assortment to be found right next to the church. To our surprise no one took one of those 8 metre giants. After everyone was supplied it was on off along the Reichsratsstraße (thereby passing by a genuine Kärntner Speckbar) towards the Rathaus, then on left in direction Rathausplatz where finishing touches were being put to the Wiener Eistraum in 2011 and people were made meandering aimlessly in a maze that looked like a building site. Living up to her name Ice Queen will soon be putting out an inviation for a Hash Ice Skating Evening in February, watch for the VH3 Mailing list!

The Ringstrasse was crossed in front of the Burgtheater and it was right on into the Volksgarten where colleagues of our former GrandMeister, who in his retirement now entertains a Hashblog are spending their lunchbreaks in the Summer.The detour to the Statue of Empress Sisi was inevitable and this was the right stage settung for yet another open air performance of the already classic Dramolett "Emperor Franz Joseph return from summer-resort in Bad Ischl (starring Slush Puppie in the title role and Ice Queen as Sisi).

To dump or not to dump

Afterwards it was on across the Heldenplatz, throught eh Hofburg and the Kohlmarkt into the Bognergasse for the way overdue Beer Stop. There was a warm welcome in the Altstadt Bräu during the afternoon hours, the children and MOM had softies, there were some spirits for Susanna Bin Laden and all the rest gloated over the delicious home brewskis. Dear landlady, dear landlord: We will be back.

The Christmas trees were parked in front of the tavern and of course being taken on again after beer consumption as the actual point of the ritual tree disposal still lay ahead. The moment came in front of the Schottenkirche, to the command of 1 - 2 - 3 the trees were being thrown onto a not-so-small pile. Then it was a few steps back to point A and no one knows for sure how many pics and videos from those happenings were made by tourists..
And we will probably never learn if the Dump Your Christmas Tree run, which symbolizes an old fertility ritual of the inner alpine region, can establish itself in other residential neighbourhoods, maybe in a slightly altered format.
There is nothing more newsworthy about a 2,8 kilometre trip through Vienna City Centre and - of course! - it is an impertinent and herewith denied false information that the routing was exactly the same just like a few years ago already.
Unquote".

Twin brothers

All I can say is thanks for this valuable piece of information.
On Out.

Here is a little love for everyone. Enjoy.

And that's Jazz

2011-01-05T14:38:00.000+01:00

Do you like Jazz music? I sure do and here are two examples of the basic music as I would like to refer to it.

I am deeply grateful for the first example pointed out to me by Hash Flash My Pint of View.

And here is another example of the 1970s, Fusion Music.

To be recommended!

OnOut

Up, Up and Away

2011-01-04T21:40:00.002+01:00

Give the Hares Credit, as always. To start the Hashing year off at January 1st is quite an achievement and all credit goes to Needleman and Bootleg Sister for that estabished, albeit last-time tradittion, as far as I know.
After the annual Vienna Philharmonic New Years Concert it is mostly off to family and familiar obligations. It has been quite a few years since I was capable or able to make such an event, from what I could tell from the pica everybody seemed to have enjoyed themselves.

Three Vindobonian Beauties

today i dog-sit.
you, me, dogs, cats, new year’s eve.
i am an ancient.

(New Years Haiku)

I have a great fondness for Haikus. The Beer Haiku Daily Site which is one of my favourite things in that section to your right on the screen somewhere kept me on my toes for years. And I did contribute one Haiku to that site that was published a while back.

Anyhow. I hope you all have a great and healthy year ahead of you.

On Out.

There is no end. There is no beginning.

2010-12-31T16:12:00.002+01:00

Just the inifinite passion of life. Apparently this is a quote from the great Federico Fellini, whilst I was thinking of ELP lyrics of a similar content.

Well, it is December the 31st again, another Hashing year has passed and I am taking a deep breath trying to reminisce about this outgoing year. A toast goes to absent friends, especially The Wolf, Hashing legend in his own respect who passed away earlier this year during a Hashrun. And another toast to all those left standing to carry on.

A hard habit to break ia the Red Dress Run, which here in Vienna always goes along with the LCC Silvesterlauf once around the Ringstrasse which is about 5,4 km. In the absence of Free Willie who in previous years always paid admission and always in vain tried to win the Hash Mobile (first prize for the winner), it was Mind the Gaps turn once again to bring along that Cimbing Rope to which the small crowd of 15+ duly held onto, yet again. The number of runners at the LCC Silvesterlauf is usually more than 3000.

I had the dubious honour to be ze front runner, given the state that this geriatic bunch is more and more slipping into, we presumably will have to be carried around the Ringstrasse in a few years time. Many many people took pics and videos from our jolly and often singing running group and it was a certain pleasure when the main announcer of that run at the finish line was asking me "Who are you guys?". My answer:" Well, the Vindobina Hash House Harriers" Q:"And what are you all about?" A:!A drinking club with a running problem". Then, 5 seconds silence and then a giggle. And that was our Red Dress run,, look for the pics at the usual Hash Flash Page and a couple examples here.

The end is beer

The circle was a relaxed affair inside the Ringstrassengallerien, and after the last Down Down in 2010 was handed out, everyone went over to Flanagans (including very late ones King Ralph, Ze GrandMeister Stormin'Norman and Ice Queen) to drink the remainder of 2010 away.

Saubattln!

OnOut to 2011!

There is peace amongst the hills

2010-12-24T12:17:00.002+01:00

And right now Ladies and Gentlemen, after the Christmas tree has been decorated and the little one is to be taken home in an hours time I feel it is the right moment to put in a short summary of the best Christmas run in 2010 out there in Guntramsdorf.

Fond memories of the run in 2002 with its heavy fog and heaps of snow are still lingering on, with Dr. Shitfaced, an American Hasher from Taiwan being our guest back then. At the OnIn at the nearby Thallern Restaurant three of us soaked that poor fellah so badly in beer that up to this day we don't know if he ever caught his flight back to Taiwan the next day Especially after Munk kicked him out at the Schönbrunn U Bahn stop late at night.

On our present occaasion the sun out in full splendour at -10 degrees Celsius and we the Hares Tickpleaser Sex Energy and yours truly couldn't help but set a short and mild run that just lasted for a bit more than the hour and mainly led uphill through all that snow to a viewpoint where we prepared a Schnapsstop and after that downhill again on the other side of the Eichkogel. Lots of familiar faces such as the Famous Pimpsqueak and his Scarlett Pimpernell, No Mercy Mistress, Deodorant and others came along. Hash Flash extraordinaire My Pint of View even tried out his Cross Country Skis before the run but unfortunately did not put them on during the run.

To see is to believe

Two cans of coke burst in my gardenshed when I stored all the liquids for the run there two days before the run and there were little icicles floating in the down down cups. A lovely scenery altogether. After a short circle it was on off to the restaurant where good food and drinks were had by all.

Well, time flies and I am herewith wishing everyone out there a very Merry Christmas. Stay safe and healthy. See you around at one of our runs or in the Schweizerhaus even?

OnOut.

Mad Man Moon

2010-12-24T11:54:00.002+01:00

So it was December the 17th (one week ago actually) and with time on our hands and the little one staying over at Grandmas for the night we decided to visit a High Quality Full Moon Hash (by its own definition) once again.

There was some decent snowfall going onin Vienna on that day and hooray even Lord Glo Balls' Google Map directions worked out fine. Upon getting to the quote vast Allerheiligenplatz it was a bit of a challenge to find the kids playground but even 25 minutes late the other 7 Hashers were duly waiting for us.

Anyhow, the falling snow somehow covered everything, the good, the bad and the trailmarks, some sort of reddish polenta(?) were absolutely invislble, yet the comfortable side of all this was that tha pack of 9 stayed together at all times. And, after quite a while of walking through the snow and alongside the Augarten, the Glühweinstop in the Bunkerei with some hot Salsa music and Glühwein senza Sugar must have been the highpoint of this evening.

The long way back made another GrandMeister of another significant Hash say: "Tbis is way too long, let's just have one Down Down for the Hares and another one for the rest of us!"

Shoe be Doo

Right next to the Root C.Anal palace the short circle was held, Lebkuchen and more homemade Glühwein made up for the length of the run, and the OnIn at the nearby Pizzeria was nearly tasteful and yummy.

OnOut.

Santa Delighting Lucia

2010-12-23T17:50:00.000+01:00

At a time when I should have stayed at home and watched TV / or just consumed some Zirbenschnaps it was tinme for No Balls Prize and Harry (the) Tosser set the second of their Swedish inspired Santa Lucia runs starting from the centre of town, not far from the Kursalon Hübner.
Everyone (including former Local Hero Ground Control) dressed up as was decorated as a Lucian Disciple and it was most pleasant to see that the charming Royal Butt Diver herself had been chosen as Lucia herself.

Vindobona Lucia in 2010

To make it short, there was not much of a run since a) have we become a bunch of bleeping Geriatrics (nothing wrong with that!) and b) was the weather, well, a little bad with some scattered rainshowers.
A highpoint was the crossing of the Karlsplatz Christmas Market where we briefly lost Ice Queen, Slush Puppie and Richard Kopf.

The main point of the run was the Schwedenbomben feast right next to the Musikverein and I honestly canÄt remember who succeeded that Noble task of eating the Schwedenbombe without using their hands. Maybe time will tell.

Eat it up!

Well, since the starting point of the run was quite near then and it still continued to rain there were a few good souls including Marathon Man, Munk and myself who couldn't care less but get back to point A if only to find the gate to warmth, beer and dry clothes locked.
So what can one poor boy do but take yet another Glühwein? It took another long while until all the runners (Tickpleaser, Ground Control and consorts) made it back and then even longer for the main Hare No Balls Prize to open up the beery gates. Since time was not on my side this time, I had to leave the circle early. But thanks anyway.

On Out.

Can't wait to see those faces

2010-12-23T17:24:00.000+01:00

And once again it was up up and away to the often tested and proven worthy location Martinsschlössl in Viennas 18th district for the annual Hash Chistmas Party. Was it the usual number of partakers of around 55? I remember this number usually fluctuates between 50 and nearly 70. More important is that everybody seemed to be having a jolly good time , ably assisted by the Hash Band, consisting of Just Ken on Lead and Just Chuck on Rhythm Guitar and vocals, our very own "I don't slap" Septic Yank on Bass and Disco-Bob No Balls Prize on Drums minus the Floor Tom as "I didn't want to carry so much stuff, you know?"

And the band plays on

A set before and after the awards speech, this time featuring our Dearly Beloved GrandMeister, made people dance (and romance?) and was it the fantastic bouffe that regulary makes us come back to this venue or what could possibly be the reason? Might be that there is hardly a better place here in Vienna to be found to host us all. Besiedes, the most regarded price and medal for the worst run in 2010 went yours trulys way!

Please take a few minutes to check out the Christmas Party Pics and think about joining the Vindobona Hash in the near future !

On Out.

Thank God it's Christmas

Delirio

2010-12-14T23:41:00.000+01:00

Before I continue with further updates place check out this wonderful piece of music by Luis Miguel. I first got to know this song in another wonderful version on a CD called New York City Ache by Bobby Sanabria.
I want to listen to and see something cheerful as I learned that one working colleague with whom I had worked on a foreign assignment for a few years and whom I knew at least workwise quite well passed away yesterday.
My condolences to Claudias family, all non Hashers.

Si pudiera expresarte Cómo es de inmenso En el fondo de mi corazón Mi amor por ti
Este amor delirante Que abraza a mi alma Es pasión que atormenta A mi corazón
Siempre tú estás conmigo En mi tristeza, estás en mi alegría Y en mi sufrir
Porque en ti se encierra toda mi vida Si no estoy contigo mi bien No soy feliz
Es pasión, delirio de estar contigo Y yo soy dichoso mi bien Porque me quieres también.

It wasn't me

2010-12-14T22:55:00.000+01:00

Well, here is one more piece of support by a regarded Mister someone who goes by the Name of Mind the Gap, covering the run on December the 5th up on a very crowded Cobenzl on a very cold day.

Quote:
"Written by Ghandi Temp.

Krampus run (its never too late to do the run of the year !!)

-----------

Despite the treacherous road conditions and the cold weather a pretty large group of Hashers were gathered Sunday afternoon ready for the Krampus run. It would have been a larger crowd but, because the Christmas market had gate crashed the location, parking spaces were difficult to come by and a number of Hashers were cruising around in their cars (nothing new there) waiting for that lucky break or even parking their car further afield - in fact almost in a field (more later).

Maybe they were cruising around still changing into their red underwear which was a stipulation of the run.
Eventually most souls made the group and we headed off through the bemused crowds into the snow. All except Tick Pleaser who still hadn't been able to find a spot - but he would race after us later - he needs the exercise anyway !!

Almost immediately we were a) in snow, b) going up hill and c) without markings as the many sledging kids and trampling feet had wiped out the second check. But that did not matter because the hares in their wisdom had decided to set the trail where no sledger, trampling foot or normal person would go - up past the end of a sledging trail, steeply (what more steeply ? Yo !!) into the woods and even deeper into snow. The first casualty of ths deep snow seemed to be St.Norman, aka Stormin' Norman.
Since G-String was not present at the run, MTG decided to be the hero of the day and go back on a S + R mission only to receive the news that St Norman had short cutted to the front of the pack and was in no danger. Making a mental note to himself to award himself his fourth Hero Of The Hash medal MTG went up that damn hill again !!

And so it went on, up and up through the trees, then level for a while to the great relief of the pack and finally down hill to the song check and many choices of where to go next. All that is except MTG who was at the back with Glo Balls making sure he didn't fall to his death or get eaten by one of the bears, wolfs of squirrels that inhabit the woods. Think about it - first he goes off to rescue a saint and then protects an OVH - surely saintly behaviour - maybe soon another title will be added to the already impressive list that is the Prof. DDr.'s own.

Obviously when they reached the song check the pack was long gone - Glo Balls was dispatched to the shortest, safest and steepest route back while MTG attempted to catch up with the pack. And catch up he did (via the hard core route which as it turned out only 4 others had done). What a hero !!

The pack seemed to be in good shape, no losses (note to hares: make it more difficult next time), even Mindphuck, aka Souvenir, aka Rita was enjoying herself and we all know that the last time there was snow was Tasmania was during the ice age. And Mindphuck wasn't even there then. Luckily for the pack it was more or less down hill from then, except of course for the sting in the tail that was the final slope back up to the the lookout point on the path that then lead the pack straight back to the car park.

Perfect planning allows this kind of trail laying ;-) Back at the car park, beer was dispensed along with Krampussy (is that a word?) things like nuts, dried figs, tangerines, chocolate things, and more beer. After a period of indecision a spot was found for the circle. By this time it was bitterly cold and surprisingly No Mercy Mistress was in the circle. It transpired that her car was stuck not in a field, but a snow bank. Since help from the Hashers would not be forthcoming until the circle was over NMM had to stay.

The usual stuff in the circle: hares MTG (saint? quadruple holder of the Hero Of The Hash medal? even OVH ??? who knows !!) and KUTY-PI were given thanks and punishment; visitor MindPhuck was honoured (honored for our retarded american cousins!!), and, and, and finally the Red underwear police were on the scene. KUTY-PI and MTG showed how it was done, followed by St. Norman, MyPint Of View, Root C Anal, and many others (see the photos) but the black sheep of the Hash was King Ralph with black underwear for which he of course drank. No Balls Prize blinded everyone with last years Green skiing jacket so no one could see the colour of his underwear.

We know what's underneath!

Mercilessy, since bitterly cold had turned into f*cking bitterly cold, Richard Freiherr von F*ckkopf (aka unofficially as XXRARK) kept the circle short, even MOM managed to control his pouring instincts, and after rescueing No Mercy Mistress's car, we gathered at the on-in nearby for some beers, good food and a lesson in how not to get your guests to pay for their food (you had to be there!!).

So: run of the year? By the time you read this we'll all know."

Unquote.

I don't really mind the cold since it usually IS cold in winter but abusing a location where we had most of the aforementioned disaster already on previous occasions? Once it was so cold that the beer froze in the Down Down Mugs before it could be put to good use. Kein Witz.

Here's to the Hares!

With Plenty of Money and You

2010-12-06T23:18:00.001+01:00

Here is yet another example of worthy contribution by the now already well known and established secret Co-Contributor Tickpleaser. This covers the run he and I set in and around Mödling on the 28th of November, covering a pretty area which is small parts of the Naturpark Föhrenberge and parts of the Liechtenstein hill (not the country of the same name!)

Quote:"

Cometh the hour, cometh the man. Or so they say. Well, all the signs were not good that this would be the case for run #1495 after the Hares had to change the D-Erections a few days before, due to a proper run taking place in Mödling on the same day. Perfect planning, as always. Safe to say that there were a few more participants in the Adventlauf than the Hash. But we all know who had the better time, don't we? The weather was perfect with the first winter snow freshly fallen and reminding us that Christmas is finally around the corner. MTG was not there to tell us exactly how many days it was to Christmas as he had disappeared to spend the weekend in Zagreb with a few other turncoats (or seasoned travelling Hashers, depending on your point of view). With three Zagrobians celebrating their 70th birthday, plus a 77th to boot, the Zagreb Hash makes even VH3 seem youthful - which as we all know is quite an achievement.

The run started in a car park on the outskirts of town just next to the forest and sure enough went straight on up and into the trees. (Where there's a hill, there's a Hash?) Thankfully for all concerned the destination wasn't the Anninger, at 650M the tallest hill in the region, and the trail soon turned right and on to the top of a ridge, before a steady walk down a lot of steps and with a great view of the aqueduct that supplies all you lucky Vindobonans with nice fresh mountain water. En route, the hares Marie Tamponette and Tickpleaser showed their obvious inexperience (I change that to imcompetence, Note Marie Tamponette) by forgetting where they had laid the trail just a few hours previously. Luckily there were enough hardy souls present to take charge and lead the bewildered pair on towards their own markings.

The Hares had wisely (and somewhat surprisingly) remembered to use a dash of polenta here and there so the markings were visible despite the patches of snow and other cold stuff. The run skirted along the valley floor next to the Mödling-Hinterbrühl main road (Brühler Straße) and, surprise, surprise, then ran up the hill the other side to the top of a second ridge. Thankfully most of the pack failed to notice (or more likely didn't care) that the trail was very similar to one a year or two ago from the same Hares, and sure enough it went past the Schwarze Turm, that slightly strange tower come unusual house, which sits over Mödling brooding like a fat maiden aunt at a wedding.

The promise of a Gluehwein stop was enough to get the straggling line of Hashers moving again, following The Famous Pimpsqueak - whose keen nose (or was it local knowledge?) had already sniffed out the impending stop. Sure enough, a few minutes later all were happily warming their hands round their mugs thanks to a small Weihnachtsmarkt next to a church on the way down to Mödling itself. From here it was a short trundle back through the pedestrian zone and yet another Weihnachtsmarkt, with a final walk uphill along the Goldene Stiege and back to the car park. Needless to say, the beer was for once properly chilled thanks to the Austrian winter weather and those hardy few who braved the On-After left Gasthaus Bockerl to find their cars under a few cm of new snow which very politely waited until the end of the circle before coming down to earth.

Unquote."

Love is in town!

Get it out of your System

2010-11-30T23:31:00.000+01:00

Dear Readers from all over the place, you make me proud to announce the glorious addition of yet another remarkable contributor. Messieurdames, put your hands together for the one and only Tickpleaser!

"Quote:

It was with a heavy heart that we found ourselves once more in the car park on Arbeiterstrandbadstrasse for run #1494. The only glimmer on another otherwise grey Viennese November's day was the prospect of a live run and the chance to humiliate the Hares.......or should I say the lambs to the slaughter? Tickpleaser, who turned up just when Glo-Balls said 'So, what about a co-hare?', unwisely volunteered and, like a nodding donkey entering the gates of the glue factory, ended up as Free Willie's partner in crime. And there lay the seeds for a disaster in the making, with Vindobona H3's very own Hernia Twins chosen to set a live run.

The pack, never that keen to actually start moving, gave the Hares a decent enough head start. The trail wound its way through the Donaupark, over the Alte Donau and past the highlights and lowlights of the 21st district before looping back towards the Donaupark, with a cheeky little stretch past the Neue Donau just to confuse the pack, before running under the Donauturm and on home through the park once more. Of course, the real challenge on a live run is simply to catch the Hares in the act, so to speak. Free Willie and Tickpleaser started in good spirits, mainly based on the fact that the last time anyone in VH3 actually ran on a Hash was back in 2001. Indeed, they were so confident that they even stopped half way round to refill their flour bottles. This was their second big mistake. The first was basing their choice of clothing on the Ronald McDonald school of camouflage, with both sporting the bright red 'Globalls 1000th run' hats which could be seen from the other side of Vienna. Their third mistake was forgetting that not all the pack were intent on getting back without scuffing their trainers. So, who amongst the mangy pack took on the challenge and took up the scent?

Well.....who better to excel on a live run than VH3's very own Deerhunter? Step up to the mark King Ralph, ably abetted by Hash Hound Vilia. With his eagle eyes, KR spotted the Hares early on and steadily reined them in until, with a good third of the run left and still a kilometre or so from the Donaupark, he was only a few hundred metres back. His cries on ON-ON! may have woken most residents of the 21st from their mid afternoon nap but it was to no avail as the rest of the pack was just too far behind to help, or care (well, there's a surprise).

Indeed, the only people to respond to KR's call were in fact the Hares! Woken from their pleasant afternoon's amble, and spurred on by their desire to keep their trousers on in the circle, Free Willie and Tickpleaser kicked off again. KR, by now definitely in the hunt despite the lack of support, steadily chased the Hares down and even their devious laying of a Titty Check didn't deter him as victory was in sight. His efforts, though, untimately ended up in vain as the cigars took their toll and he lost the Hares around the Donauturm, ending up back at the car park just a minute or two behind Free Willie and Tickpleaser. So - this time anyway - the Hares kept their trousers, despite KR's valiant attempt and the short cutting efforts of a few of the more devious amongst the VH3 brethren who also made it back close behind. A good time was had by all (well............... most, well.........at least some) and the general consensus was that we should have a few more live runs. On-On to the next one in 2011!

Unquote!".

Well, not very much more for me to recommend than to try your luck and stroll around Viennas Christmas Markets. Not necessarily the biggest one on Rathausplatz. There are plenty other opportunities around (Altes AKH, Am Hof, Freyung, Belvedere...). And if you happen to live outside of Vienna in some other part of the World, come visit the Vindobona Hash (founded in 1982) and run(?) with us. It is well worth the effort.

Or you may just happen to like today's musical piece.
On out.

Birds Like it

2010-11-24T00:00:00.002+01:00

So here is a report straight from the horses mouth, which is the GREAT Slush Puppie himself. This run took place on Sunday, November the 14th.

Here we go.
"Quote (in my best translative effort)
The meetingplace would have been superb except for the fog. Run through the Maurer Wald, the first checkpoint had already been destroyed by the countless walking dudes, 98 % of those being dog owners, and the first FRBs were doing some extrametres already.
Next scene alongside a vineyard: Richard Kopf is falling, remains unhurt and finds out later on that he must have lost his mobile and reckons that it might fell out during his fall. Tickpleaser suggests that R.Kopf should walk back and call his number with someone elses mobile phone to hear his own one ringing in the grass.
As usual, Ice Queen takes care of business from here onwards, calls the RA's number, after a long while Nedja (lifepartner, Lebensmensch of R.Kopf) answers the phone. Richard Kopf did not take the damn thing with him and left it at home!

Run # 1493

Ice Queen is now having a long chat with Nadja, and chatting seems to have been the principal motive for all participants. Merry Me, Septic Yank, No Mercy Mistress, Boney M, Root C, Lord GB (OVH), all chatters from the "chatting club with a walking problem".
Passing by the Wotruba Kirche, when architectural expert King Ralph point out the missing eaves and the hereby resulting ugliness of the concrete front (typical architect - no master builder).
Then onwards to the Sternengarten and onto the lovely Pappelteich. The songstop was ignored due to the absence of a Songmeister. And then back into the forest. Flying Dutchman is the only one who seems to have a vague idea of where he might find himself and yet he constantly takes the wrong checks, presumably all this takes way too long for him already. King Ralph has lost the group a while ago as he thought that the trail would lead by the signposted Waldschänke which was inapplicable.

After one hour everyone is back at the outside wall of the Lainzer Tiergarten, but near the Gütenbachtor (a bit away from the cars that is). A short extraloop for the FRBs, on down towards the road and then back up the long and steep meadow, W*nkers and Runners are back together again.

Then it is really boring and uninspired by the Hares constantly along the outside wall of the Lainzer Tiergarten, it is nearly dark by now.

In the absence of our famous GrandMeister it is up to the freshly baked GM of Vice to open the circle which obviously hits her completely unexpected. Usual Down Downs thereafter. OnIn at the Designerheurigen Wiltschko within walking distance from the carpark.

Ganslsuppe, Kümmelbraten, Murauer Flaschenbier, and the really young wine (the real Heuriger) was already available. The pack atrracted considerable attention due to clothing (other guests rather sniffish, due to "assimiliation" to-days Hashers had not been thrown out from these premises.
One more thing : Good luck to Septic Yank for the upcoming Hip operation.
Unquote".

Thanks to Slush Puppie for this report.
On Out.

That bird with feathers of blue
Is waiting for you
Back in your own backyard

You'll see your castles in Spain
Through your window pane
Back in your own backyard

Oh you can go to the East
Go to the West
Someday you'll come
Weary at heart
Back where you started from

You'll find your happiness lies
Right under your eyes
Back in your own backyard

C'etait une bonne annee je crois

2010-11-14T22:22:00.000+01:00

It is that magical time of the year when anybody who is anybody (which in fact is everyone at the Vindobona Hash) gets elected onto the Masthead to carry out all possible and unthinkable jobs that can crop up during the existence of a Hash Chapter. The run, to my mild surprise, was being set across the railway bridge leading out of the Prater (thanks a LOT, Hares!) and then through very much industrialized parts of the 11th district right near the Gasometer where a shortish songstop was crowned by Deodorants failing memory to come up with the right verses for the good ship venus. I honestly had no idea that this song was featured on a Sex Pistols record from 1979. Funny Punks.

The Song Stoppers Heart is yearning

A New Boot?/Guest? from the Tirana Hash was amongst the leaders of the pack and it was the last possible way over that ensuiung pedestrian bridge where the trail was leading back into the Prater. Who was it who took that winning short alongside with me? Our guest from Albania, together with the Third Child, Tickpleaser and Munk. The rest of the trail was as tasty as a Martinigansl at the Hash House. Guest/Regular Multiple Entry with Girlfriend Feel my Meat both ex Moscow and now New Delhi I suppose? graced us with their presence (which of course was our present) and, later at the circle, Mutiple Entry started to distribute a few nice looking Moscow Hash Tees to an assorted few.

Well, and the cameth the AGM. Multiple "Kingmaker" Entry won an initial vote over Standing there for the role of presiding officer to moderate the meeting, there were reoprts both from Hash Cash and GrandMeister (and yes, we ARE financially healthy) and then cameth the voting rites. To be introduced by a most fitting trumpet fanfare. (Yuck!)

Everybody who is anybody (i.e. all of us, even if they were not present) got awarded one post or another on the Masthead, with the expection of Squeeze Box Mama perhaps, who was suceeded by Root C Anal as Vice GrandMeister, Yes, and your Hero Stormin' Norman is going to continue for another year. His last one as GrandMeister, he says. Let's all do what we can to keep him and Lord Glo-Balls (OVH) in their respective posts, for the next 15000 runs perhaps.

On Out.

Typical example of a dispute during an AGM, maybe.

Why was he?

2010-11-14T20:56:00.000+01:00

On Friday November the 5th, the delectable Merry Marugoto and the remarkable My Pint of View prepared for a surprise party for Joystick who always looks the same and never seems to get any older, at least to our beloved GrandMeister. Go tó the Bamkraxler Restaurant in the 19th district and find there likely tihe only place where Augustiner Bräu is being sold in Vienna. Lovely stuff for sure.
Alright then, Hashy Birthday (again and for the rest of time) herewith.

And here is some form of support for Joysticks affiliation to Japan:

On Out.

Happy New Beer

2010-11-09T00:21:00.001+01:00

Some habits stay the same, at least for a bit. Opening and closing day of the Schweizerhaus - though that may change drastically from next year onwards as the Schweizerhaus has been completely ripped down and is being totally renovated - have become fixtures outside the Hashing year, but peacefully juxtaposed to the runs.
My Sisters Glowing K'unts initial idea was to set run far away from the Schweizerhaus somewhere in the 14th district and was persuaded by Joystick to start the run from the outskirts of the Prater at a favourite place of ours, the Knusperhäuschen at Rustenschacherallee in the 2nd district.

Cherchez les femmes

Me and family got to the Schweizerhaus at 10:00 exactly and by then there was already a decent crowd, with our friends from Prague, the Motovidlo Jazz Band. Family left after an our which was quite understandable if you're not into beer.
I am always amazed how quickly the time passes over the course of a few beers and when the Brass Combo Schürzenträger - our heros! - started to play everything was fine. The Hash crowd came along for an extended OnAfter of course. And then, to top it all first Lady Go Diver turned up for a short visit from the Hague and shortly after - dare I say it - MINUTEMAN made it all the way over from Tennessee to partake in the festivities. Dedication at its best, my friends. And it sure is always fine to see friends again.


Senza Parole

On out, to the reopening naturally.

It All comes back to me now

2010-11-08T23:14:00.000+01:00

If have not been to Innermanzing before and it was a pleasant occasion when King Ralph and his disciples were setting a run starting from his house. Everything was prepared for a tasty OnAfter with a spacious partytent and a few fireplaces in the Royal Garden, the start of the run led off from the garden straight through a little ditch with a few pair of wet shoes and straight on up into the local hilly surrounding.

Tent with a View

Through some pleasant running terrain - and gee it must be REALLY cold here in winter! - it was onto the much welcomed Beer Stop, and from there via a pretty slick False Trail back to the Hash Villa where the fires were already burning to keep us all warm. Several certificates were handed out by Lord Glo-Balls (OVH) including one for King Ralph for having reached 350 runs. I had to leave early so no report from the sumptuous bouffe that was being prepared including sausages, potato salad and, well, beer.


The Great King Ralph

On Out.

Little Stars Dancing and Jumping

2010-11-03T15:12:00.000+01:00

A recent Full Moon run that was being set by the delectable Casting Couch and Sex Energy somewhere in Viennas 23rd district saw me being appointed or rather persuaded to come along as the flowercarrying guy.
A short and pleasant short run near Alterlaa (but not quite there) leading on over the Altmannsdorfer into an older looking residential area lasted for about 40 minutes which is more or less perfect Full Moon timing. Having experienced Hashers like the wonderful Red Aunt and The Final Kuntdown running along really helped as they discovered a sign that read Hash View right outside their garden door. And, being great hosts, they kindly provided Schnaps for the lot. A sincere thank you from your Blogger herewith.

Kisses Sweeter than Wine

The circle was an affair in the darkness, rather close to the Metroline 6 and was highlighted by the late turnup of Munk and the Full Moon GrandMeister Joystick. The OnIn can be highly recommended at Mimis Stüberl at the nearby Altmannsdorfer Straße. Great food and traditional Viennese company, so to say.

There can only be one GrandMeister at a time

OnOut.

Raise a Voice

2010-10-28T22:45:00.001+02:00

Today a year ago I started this Hashblog, the idea was to get rid of the old Rehashes that once covered the runs of the Vindobona Hash House Harriers and to find a new format, mix things up a bit. Thank you very much to all who visited and indeed thanks to all those who left comments. Even if you don't have a clue what Hashing is all about and just jumped onto some musical piece, well I would say we also share a common interest here.
Enough sentimentality, the aim is to get ready for the Schweizerhaus closing day this coming Sunday.
It is all about beer, music and nice company. By means of explanation in case you have never heard of this great beer place.

On Out.

Home by the Sea

2010-10-22T00:56:00.000+02:00

Another run I couldn't make, and alas I read about Schnaps -and Beerstops that I missed in the rain, somewhere out there at the Badeteich in Süssenbrunn on the other side of town, hared by Needleman and Bootleg Sister. Cold and Rainy but still a turnout of 18. And the OnIn at a Gasthaus by the Lakeside. OnOn to the next upcoming distractions.

On Out.

Amazing Journey

2010-10-22T00:25:00.000+02:00

And here is the official news of the second Vindobona Hash baby that has been born on October the 13, her name Leyla Marie, the sister of the Bintang Kidd Anthony and son of Sex Immigrant and Marathon Man. Sincere congratulations again from my part. And here is the official press notice, taken from this link:

Geburt am Rettungswagen

Die kleine Leyla hatte es besonders eilig und kam Mittwochnachmittag bereits im Johanniter Rettungswagen zur Welt. Mutter und Kind sind wohlauf.

Am 13. Oktober um 17:45 kam die kleine Leyla auf der Fahrt ins Krankenhaus zur Welt. Der Vater hatte um 16:52 den Krankenwagen der Johanniter bestellt, seine Frau hatte bereits regelmäßige Wehen. In der Donaucitystraße, in Wien Donaustadt, war es dann soweit. Die Frau hatte einen Blasensprung und Presswehen. Der Fahrer und Notfallsanitäter Thomas Wagner hielt in der Unterführung vor der Auffahrt zur Donauuferautobahn an und half bei der Geburt. Binnen weniger Minuten erblickte das Baby das Licht der Welt. Leyla ist 55 cm groß und 3,3 kg schwer. Mutter und Kind wurden anschließend ins Sanatorium Döbling gebracht, beide sind wohlauf.

Für den Notfallsanitäter Thomas Wagner war das bereits die dritte Geburt, nicht so für die beiden Kollegen: Zivildiener und Rettungssanitäter Martin Simonsky und Praktikant Fabian Weyss haben das erste Mal bei einer Geburt geholfen.

Are we talking about potential members of our Masthead in 20 years time?
Here's to somebodys little sister:

On Out.

I wonder as I wander

2010-10-21T23:28:00.002+02:00

Before I try to cover that insignificant run from Sunday the 10th of October, sincere congrats herewith to Pussy Galore and Just Maria on the occasion of the birth of their son Matthias Bernhard on Saturday October the 9th. Keep building to the Hashes future, folks! We know who'll be next here in Vienna. Watch this space.

Admiring a vast area of fields and half finished houses - and the newly opened terminal station of Viennas Metroline # 2 (U2) one could not help but feel immediately at home, in the midst of half-finished houses, long roads of England-like semi-detached houses and - Transdanubian special - completely flat area. Aspern, one of the oldest settling areas of Vienna and for sure the scenery of Naopeleons defeat in 1809 - will be seeing a whole new part of town coming to life in a few years, including a further three of four extra Metroline stops.
Anyway. Some unexpected a very nice green parts including some quiet backroads led out to the former Flugfeld Aspern. Flat terrain as flat as possible all around. The only elevation I could make out was a three metre high mudhill where there was the songstop.

After that it was another long and straight run to the Marathon Man Family house and a very welcomed Schnaps stop. And then on back to the car park where credit was due once again to Marathon Man for doing a fine job as guest RA, in the absence of most officials, except for one (the most important one of course).

Mister you-know-who-without-whom

Those building site containers at the parking lot even contained a halfway decent and open toilet with toiletpaper, pretty astounding for a Sunday afternoon. Senk ju to the Hares My PInt of View and Joystick of course.

On Out.

This song is herewith dedicated to Mathias Bernhard, baby boy of Pussy Galore and Just Maria.

There's heaven ahead

2010-10-03T22:19:00.001+02:00

Literally spoken since the place that the Hares Deodorant and Knödel mit Ei had chosen once was a large factory to produce TNT and one place that saw some forceful detonations. Writing this run up in absentia I can only speculate about the happenings, furthermore no Hash Flash was present so you will have to do with this or writeup or just be so kind as to leave a comment if you made the run. Derelict houses, tunnels, old railway lines must have provided a special feel for the attendees. Remember that the nearby Tattendorf winemakers who are renowned to produce a fine Sankt Laurent.
Well, that's about it.

Suitable theme song for todays run enclosed (Original by Joe Cuba and Cover Version by David Sanborn)

On Out.

The Palace of Exile

2010-09-28T22:23:00.001+02:00

can be found near Baden, in direction of Helenental. Park your vehicle next to the Hotel Sacher (not the one in Vienna) and then get started on over to forest, eventually finding your way up to the Ruine Rauheneck. Sperminator and Little Richard started the tradition of the Kaiserjäger a year ago and the second edition was placed on the outskirts of Baden. Knowing the prowess of the Hares, 25 or so runners showed up and then it was on up the hills. A few lenghty checkbacks later that aforementioned Burg Rauheneck had been reached. Look for the airy-fairy backside of Richard Kopf's Kopf.


Windpassing

The way back saw a songstop (well-meant effort) and some wading through lots of underwood and leaves on the way back to the carpark. Praise go to the winning initiative of the day which was to bring along 4 doublelitres of Sturm (all those readers from abroad see here for a description) and Little Richard tried to top that by having Linzer Torten spendiert (Hashy Birthday!) and the icing on the cake were the tastefully designed free Tee-Shirts by the Hares, let alone the Stamperln (Schnapsglasses) with the old double-headed eagle (once a symbol of Imperial Austria).
Farewell herewith to Crag Rat and Minnie Mouse, who should be already back in Nairobi. Godspeed!


Schilchersturm, a real treat!

Round this windy affair up with Pink Floyd:

On Out.

One Fish, Why Not

2010-09-22T00:10:00.001+02:00

The first Sunday run was set by the remarkable Standing There in the vicinity of the Museumsquartier near the centre of town. For several reasong I couldn't turn up, from what I heard and read there were a few sights alongside the track and lots of lovely food, Champagne (Farewell to Glory Daze!) and Cold Beer. And Richard Kopfs sister made a visit. And even more food at the On In. For a special prcie of course.

Would you like a snack?

A musical blast from the past, somehow.

On Out.

Deep Throat

2010-09-21T23:52:00.002+02:00

This gem has been pointed out to me by a well-meaning bloke and maybe at one song-stop on a future run the Song will go something like this.

It is called Siberian throat singing.

he loved the rain

she came into his life

and gave him an umbrella

(Russian Haiku)

Poetry in Motion

2010-09-21T23:36:00.001+02:00

A new or much rather a different location (a carpark 200 metres away from two previously used starting points) was more than enuff to attract a crowd of 20 out to Strebersdorf and the usual routine occured. Meaning that we hit the vineyards and the Kellergassen once again (and all those sure are beautiful surroundings) and, after walkers and runners trails split and merged again, met at the Heurigen zur Christl at the Senderstraße in Stammersdorf, where we had many a drinkstop on previous occasions. "Don't you worry guys, this run will be short!" sayeth the Grand Meister. And that meant of course that the trail, for the runners at least, meant sweating and puffing and cursing. Though all was mended at latest at the winestop.

And, after a not so long way back to the carpark the once again cool beer and the present of King Ralph's presence completed this last Monday run in 2010.

This music has got absolutely nothing to do with this run or the area of Strebersdorf and comes from a guy whose music I love a lot.
Check out Vinicio Capossela. This one is from LiveinVolvo.
Brush up that Italian of yours.

On Out.

Maiden Voyage

2010-09-12T23:53:00.002+02:00

The delectable Finger Me, being duly assisted by My Pint of View and his Master Circle Jerk chose the venue of the Hash Houuse (Gösser Bierinsel in the Prater that is) for Finger Me's virgin Hare run. Since there is not much that one could possibly do wrong in this area, it was a treat to see that unkown terrain had been covered even after all those years and I found it especially pleasant that the first part of that run was being set on a relatively small area. After crossing the main road near the Lusthaus, it was more a standard thing to get to the Prater Hauptallee and then back through lots and lots of mud and dung.
The pleasure was all ours when a tasty cake was presented and Bier Her, our famours waiter from the Hash House enjoyed a few Down Downs with us. If you ever can fit that trip into your calender, go down to the Gösser Bierinsel and enjoy the great food and the peoples friendlyness.
The menu - Fleischknödel mit Sauerkraut - was simply superb.

Hashing Life is a piece of cake?

Strange things happen!

And put this to a worthy ending with a theme for something really important:

On Out.

Standard Definition

2010-09-12T23:19:00.001+02:00

The Wasserpark right next to the Floridsdorfer Brücke is a stonethrow away from the now well-known carpark 300 metres to the southeast on the Donauinsel so a suitable question could be asked - why set runs very often in the same evnironment? On the other hand, that is not overly important as long as there is cold beer available and it does not rain too hard during runs. Although, Hash runs in torrential rain can be very funny. There are lots of fond memories, also a few from the current Hashing year.
Anyhow, this run was an after rain affair and it was well done and there was a beer stop, featuring COLD BEER. Very appealing indeed. Yet, at the beer stop location alongside the Obere Alte Donau the Hares declared that they either ran out of flower or something must have happened as 95 percent of the runners present decided to take it easy and just walk back.
A laid back circle later when daylight disappeared rapidly it was on off to a traditional Gasthaus nearby.

It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing

On Out.

Farewell at the Summer Office

2010-09-12T22:49:00.004+02:00

The summer office, located at the Rathauspark in Viennas first district and opened annually during July and August is the place for the likeminded to spend the occasional and relaxed lunchbreak at. Over the years a loyal group of followers developed, and the comings and goings over the years now led to say goodbye to Lady Go Diver, who now works in the Pays Bas but promised to make it back occasionally. As you can tell by the pic, a small but merry group enjoyed that day. Farewell to Lady Go Diver and very best of luck to you!

Beggars Banquet, several decadeds later

Especially for all those who came to Vienna and left again, here is my personal musical wish to you. And try to find out who plays the saxophone at the very end of this song, you'll be surprised.

On Out.

Noddy goes to Sweden

2010-08-26T20:38:00.002+02:00

Not a real connection to last Mondays run from my part since I decided to tale a break, stay home and eat great Wurstfleckerln - you actually can do Hashruns every Monday and Sunday in your entire lifetime but what the heck? From what I heard My Sisters Glowing (aka Afterglow) seemed to have set a good one somewhere in the 13th district and it musta been all milk and honey later at the OnIn.

Don't we all want a little Love and Happiness, at least sometimes?

On Out.

Just a Pool of Beers

2010-08-23T22:07:00.006+02:00

A real fixture of the Vindobonian Hashing year is the famed Swimming Pool run of No Mercy Mistress's house in the 22nd district, not far from Hirschstetten. The area itself is not that much exciting, yet after many years one knows that the highlight (heileit) certainly is the circle around and sometimes in the hosts swimming pool, do not even mention the sauna that came in Hash use all steamin' and cookin' two or three years ago.
A true landmark of these runs over the last few years was also that there was a guarantee of heavy thunderstorms and torrential rainfall. Much to my displeasure none of these happened last Monday (August 16 that was) but some really heavy rainfall preceded this run as you can see by the following picture of the Hirschstetten Badeteich with slightly high water:

Two gents washing away the blues

The run itself was at times really pleasant but the sheer sights and sounds of the nearby motorway A 23 for at least a kilometre quickly made me change my opinion and since no-one else is doing a write up about all this you will have to live with it. Lots and lots of runners cameth along, including Null Comma Josef, King Gook even (at the very end) and the Great Kuntini managed to master all of the course on his hot bike, dragging his father with him.
The swimming pool water looked a bit greenish to me, nonetheless just about everybody took a swim and three brave ones (Munk, Lady Godiver and myself) made it to the sauna and the usual huge and tasty B-B-Q finished everything off. Circle? What circle?

On Out.

Sun in the Night by Brand X, might explain hot sauna in the middle of the night.

English meaning of the lyrics:

Sun in the night
Everyone is together
Ascending into the heavens
Life is forever

Original Sanskrit lyrics see here (two variations, as being kindly provided by some kind people in India - hey I DO know someone over there!)

variation 1)
Apgaté surya, sadhyanté janah
Nanu swargé api, jewanam chalati

variation 2)
Asatam gachart suryah, Sanyun jayanté janah
Swargé jaté satcharti jeewanam

Any additions/alterations greatly appreciated!

By the way, vocals being done by Phil the Collins

Dazed and Confused

2010-08-12T23:53:00.002+02:00

Since a likable chap passed through our nice city (Multiple Entry is his name) from Moscow on his way to his next destination n New Delhi there was no reason for 35 people to stay at home but much rather to make it out to the Votivkirche to take part in a classic one. Yours truly first got stuck in traffic and then I got stunned by mutiple roadworks and the result was me being 20 minutes late. Tuff. Union Jack pointed the way for me and after lots of problems to find the remaining flower marks, all the way through the 9th district, passing by the Piaristenkirche, crossing over the Donaukanal and finally ending up in the Augarten, I was most pleased to see that Hash Cash had been forced to sponsor a Beer Stop in the Bunkerei. After a longish stop Sex.O-Phone, Munk and I stayed on for an extra Seidl so we had to make our way back across the 2nd district and up to the Votivkirche again.

The circle had a special feature with a naming for Just Fran who started to run with this Hash Chapter in 1982 and then stopped for a long time. For your pleasure (?) I include the official naming announcement by the delectable Religious Advisor Richard Kopf.

(Quote)

[ the full story and AUTHORISED SPELLING have to be stated so that the
owner of the newly-named hash handle can keep this dirge as a
certificate for all of her posterior :-) ]

HEAR YE HEAR YE HEAR YE
It is hereby announced:

Be it known to All Hashers - and in particular LORD Glo-Balls (cos it is he
who records these things and makes it official - watch the official spellings, lgb!).

On the occasion of the Run No.1479 at Votivkirche (Hare: Multiple Entry - can't we get rid of him ??!!!),

there was a Naming ceremony for:

The Hasher Known Up Till Then as .............. Just Fran

In a full VH3 traditional ceremony,
was awarded the Hash Name: ............... ... GLORY DAZE

Explanation (!?eh?):

perhaps due to the fine weather (gee thanx ra) in the circle, the Vindobonese
went for their third (!) naming in succesive runs (sorry, insignificant fool muhn runs do not count!)

Fran is one of the original hashers of Vindobona, going right back to ze early years. [Aside: how cum she looks so fresh beside these worn-out hobos of yester year - you know, those 1000 no-lifers]

Anyway, no-lifer "Cardinal" Munk came up with the suggestion that those early times at Vindobona were indeed the "glory days" (can i hear bruce strumming in the background?), but the spelling of the second word should reflect his observation of Fran's oblique, slightly confused way of looking at him. And he wonders why...? :-)

As the other suggestions for a name were ven more obscure, Munk'S proposal was carried by the usual hashocratic procedure (eh?!)

... She was not worthy ...

Ceremony (in VH3 tradition carried out by guest ra Multiple Entry): Flour, Beer; Flour, Beer; Flour , more beer ! ! ......
(disgusting sight)....

Signed on behalf of the Naming Committee:

Lady Go Diva (in absentia)
Marry Me (in absinthe)
Septic WYank (still on vacation?)
Freiherr von fickkopf

Mindphuck (where she?)
Seedy CD Canada Dry (who he?)
Multiple Who (delhi or is it deli bound)

ON ON

(Unquote)

Not much left to say but to include a fitting song for all this. Led Zeppelin of course.

This Cowboy Song

2010-08-12T23:32:00.002+02:00

The Floridsdorfer Brücke and that part of the Donauinsel seem to have a charm of their own since this must be the third or fourth run in this area that we had over the last six months. Despite being a little critical about that choice I have to give the Hares credit for trying to come up with a new part all the way through a Schrebergartensiedlung that could remind one a bit of Smurfland. On our way across the Floridsdorfer Spitz there was an interesting looking job agency with a slogan like Ready, set, work.

The thing in my right hand is a slidewhistle

There is not very much to report than the fact that I had a nice chap with newboot Just Karim who gt awarded a Down Down in most classic teabag fashion afterwards. Shoes and such, you know? The way back on the Donauinsel towards the carpark needs no further mentioning, since, well, we have been there every many times before.
And even more credit goes to the Hares for providing COLD BEER! Truly remarkable. Thanks for having me.

On Out.

You must have heard about the Comedian Harmonists. Or at least some of you. This is musical history, folks!

Preaching by the Roadside

2010-08-01T23:21:00.001+02:00

Lovely My Sisters Glowing (aka Afterglow) set yet another run up at the Baumgartner Höhe, venue of very many runs throughout the year. The Baumgartner Höhe houses a huge hospital for several kinds of mental diseases and a pavillon called Vindobona. One could think that this Hash Chapter had been founded up there, way back in time when Leonid Brezhnev still ruled and Andropov was not the name of my cat but rather that of the former KGB Chief. Anyhow.
I got stuck in traffic and arrived a little late, together with Joystick and the delectable Standing There. In no time were we able to catch up and the usual jog alongside the brickwall that surrounds the Steinhofgründe followed. Somehow or other that run looked like a rerun from the backend from one course back in March or April, and even a different starting point (carpark at the Johann Staud Gasse) was incorporated.
Munk and I avoided the Songstop and decided to head back all the way through the Steinhofgründe, alongide the Kirche am Steinhof and through the park of the hospital.

Say what?

The circle was a rather casual affair with lots of crisps and cold beer and the naming of No Balls Prize son who got the charming name of No Balls Surprize. Lots of mosquitos again. And, let me tell you, this is the season of the Winefestivals all around the place. If you're not from Vienna then try to just come along for a run with us in the summer and then have one or a few nice glasses of wine. Check the Whineroad link in my favourite thingie list. Although not really fitting to Austrian Winefestivals (or is it?); here is a little article about cheese and sex in France.

On Out with Pirron und Knapp to brush up your German skills a bit.

Asleep on the Rim

2010-08-01T21:38:00.000+02:00

Back to old Kaisermühlen again for another Monday run, very close to the main entrance of that huge public bath called the Gänsehäufel. Our good friends this summer, the mossies were there as well, waiting for lots of fodder from their best friends i.e. all those who made it to the run.
Ice Queen, Slush Puppie and a friend from Norway (Bubbles) prepared a course around that area that which first led on over to the Donauinsel and then, thankfully, not down all the way to the Nordbrücke but rather back near the Reichsbrücke over that footbridge onto the Copa Cagrana. After a short detour and a consecutive songstop in the Donaucity it was on book along the Alte Donau again. The circle featured new boot Just Karims first run, the usual Union Jack speech and at the On After bazillions of mosquitos had a great time with the huge crowd that were all sitting outside. And I had a remarkable bad stomach virus the next day. Yet, that Zwiebelrostbraten tasted mighty fine!

On Out.

Today's religious advice is My Prayer by the Ink Spots.

Hot Rails to Hell

2010-07-14T23:36:00.000+02:00

Maybe a bit of a contradictory title for this post since I intend to end it on a high note but who really cares about this? On very short notice Sex Energy and I could persuade our daughter Fallen Angel to both stay at home instead of taking on a 49 kilometre drive to Stockerau, the area the Grand Meister himself and his wife did choose for a run in the heat in those forests (Auwälder) with several billions of every insect tribe you could imagine waiting out there to eat you alive.
Just about 20 brave ones did not care about the temperatures, the run featured a walkers trail even, yet that did not seem very much shorter than the running part. Did I mention the heat, meaning that it was - really - hot? Seems like the running (or walking) part was not very eventful, no song stop, no drink stop (now THAT would have been a tough one to carry drinks inside the forest all the way). Just no special memories.
Towards the end I had a nice chit chat with Slush Puppie and King Ralph about the art of rendering favours to one another and maybe to public servants in different countries. Union Jack came back from his hiding in Angeles City (no, not Tinseltown, the other one) and received a mug and certificate for his 50th run and soon after at least I was happy that the aircondition in my automobile worked.

Amd now to something completely different:

What the?

Intermission and Summer Office

2010-07-12T01:18:00.004+02:00

Last week we went on holiday to a place somewhere in the Salzburg province, hence not even a fake run report.

Next week, maybe.

After the Regenbogenparade here in Vienna (CSD.Parade) on July 3 Sex Energy and I went to the long anticipated opening of my beloved Summer office on Rathausplatz. It's the place to spend your lunch breaks in Summer if you happen to work near the centre of Vienna. Definitely. Current Beer price (Inflation indicator) is Euro 3,50 for a Pint.

Once around the block

2010-07-12T01:13:00.001+02:00

Who really cares about run lenghts at full moon runz? I can't speak for everyone of course but for me at least these runs shouldn't last longer than 30, maybe 45 minutes max. Casting Couch was being helped by the Great Kuntini and Dr. Kunt himself and the use of the pool in the garden before the run, helped by a few beers and the warm weather made just for a short run, mainly around the extended block in Neu-Guntramsdorf and back via the Wiener Neustädter Kanal, passing by the beloved Teichheurigen Liska am Rohrteich. Very much to be recommended.
The circle was being followed by Kunt Tell Ya, Rowed Runner and yours truly in sitting position since we all could proudly display our injuries and much credit to the Hares for the beer was really cold this time. Ensuing B-B-Q and then being eaten alive by the mosquitos.

Do you still remember the great movie Rumble Fish? Motorcycle Boy rules!
On out.

I go swimming

2010-07-12T00:43:00.002+02:00

Read a bit from Mr. Saint-Exupery if you haven't done so already. More of that at the end of this post. More medical problems made me make acquaintance to another Viennese hospital (the AKH this time) and it is only now as I am writing this nonsense do I remember that three years ago Munk and I set parts of a Ski Week Solidarity run through that huge hospital (you know that we developed the successful theory that the Hash Ski Weekers shouldn't gain an extra credit for their run so we started to do runs here in Vienna during the ski week on the same date as they would abroad).
Just that the regarded visitors to this site will understand a tiny little bit more about our local Hash mysteries and traditions.
Much to my pleasure this run took place at the intended venue out at the Figurteich in Guntramsdorf, one of the last refuges in our neigbourhood where nature is preserved and swimming is free and skinny dipping is allowed.
I was told by Sex Energy that she and Cohare Casting Couch were a little bit late with their trailsetting so the start was late too but nonetheless the run was considered to be a good one even by the usual ritical observers. Was the beer after the run warm or cold or just chilled down to air temperature? Matter of fact was that only a handful of brave ones dared to swim since their must have been bazillions of mosquitos. Tough I say.
Come back next year and try again.
On out.

Cohare and Hare

A year, ten years from now, I'll remember this

2010-07-12T00:03:00.005+02:00

When did you start to run with your own chapter of the Hash House Harriers? Sex Energy and I started way back in 1988 with the Warsaw Hash when the Hash Fee was one US-Dollar and Tuborg and Becks were Hash Beer. Glorious days full of illusions. And no internet, naturally.
Looks like My Pint had been forced or should I rather say encouraged by his brozzer Joystick to join the fold on, a mere three years after that, started his own remarable version of the Hash Photo Website
Was it really on the premises of the Wienerberg that the Hare did lay the first trail of his own? Since I could jpin the happenings for a change I can happily report that due to ongoing medical problems I could share the last place of the pack to enjoy a few stories about Health Care and Train velocities with Mr. Vindobona Hash , the man who pulls all the strings here, Mr. Maintainer of the Vindobona Hash Website... no name will be mentioned here. Suffice to say the man without whom.
After lotsa rain until shortly before the run the terrain was a little moist to say the least and a few denied the steep downhill climb in the middle of the run, choosing a more comfortable way around.
The end was rather quickly alongside the rear end of the Wienerberg city and then everything seemed to be a piece of cake.

A schönes Torterl

How Can I? Do you recognize the singer? The guitarist is another hero of mine.

On out.

Don't get around much lately

2010-07-11T22:01:00.000+02:00

The Arbeiterstrandbadgasse was never a big favourite of mine as far as runlocations are concerned but always a fixed point for the likes of Crag Rat to start his runs from. Anyway, since I was still prevented from attending this run (and the last occasion to see the haring prowess of Crag Rat and Minnie Mouse since they are moving back to Kenia in September) one can only speculate about the happenings.
I remember on one occasion that Crag Rat decided to take us all the way down (or up) the entire Alte Donau to the very end and back on the other side, a distance well reaching some 12 or 13 k's.
Funny that no-one ever thought about or tried to set a beerstop up at the Donauturm. Or hold a Hash Soccer interlude at those vast lawns of green in the Donaupark.
Well, thanks to the Hares nonetheless for their friendship and all their efforts over the years.

Please find a very suitable comment about all this here:

On Out.

Watch what happens

2010-06-17T19:02:00.002+02:00

Finally. The Induction of the next candidate into the local Hall of Hash, better known as the OVH (Order of the Vindobona Hash).Inductee # 2 or runner up to the inimitable Lord Glo-Balls was Munk and the scene was set for Laxenburg Schlosspark where you basically cannot fail to set a good run and you definitely meet up with loads of nice mosquitos.
Since I couldn't be at the event for medical reasons, I thought that I'll just make up a short story, taking in account the 793 times we have been to Laxenburg before. Please take a few moments to admire photographic doumentation of a few decorations that have occured in the preceding weeks, not necessariliy in chronological order:


A very tasteful celebration

To be followed by


Somebody Else's dream

And ...


Well, another celebration

and eventually

The Return of the Cardinal!

The fact is that we are becoming a geriatric chapter and I think that this is a fine thing. Add new blood to oldish, well, local Hashers and people will think that the Vindobona Hash has got some tradition. Which it certainly has. Very Hashy Birthday to the following Harriette:

Flowers to the Lady!

Since I cannot say much more about all this in absence, on out herewith. More Muzak to follow.

There is no greater love

2010-06-06T16:26:00.000+02:00

A place to be recommended to go to is Croatia. First time my parents took me there in 1970 (old times in Yugoslavia) and after a very long break family went back in 2006 and last week again, this time to a place near Porec on the upper Istrian Coast. Very familyfriendly and, of course, great beer. Drink Ozujsko and Karlovacko.

Which, certainly, brings me to a plea to support our friends from the Zagreb Hash House Harriers. My personal heros, the lads who make everything possible for a special price. Take a trip down to one of their weekends, a strong recommedation from your Hash Blogger.

Anyhow, back in Vienna (and having apparently missed Ice Queens 500th and Richard Kopf's 750th run, congrats!) it was time to explore parts of the Bisamberg again after the Sendemast got blown away a short while ago. The thing at least I was longing for most during the entire run was a glorious bottle of cold white wine . hey, we were in the middle of one of the major wino areas of Vienna! - but alas! the only thing worthwhile to report were grazing goats on top of the hill, not far from the former Antenna on top.

As we all not really had a choice but to run back downhill again, the reward for all of this - thanks to all the Dutch Hares! - was cold Pilsner Urquell!
The inspired circle featured, well, much of the same procedure as every week and then it was on off to an OnIn of the different kind, not the Weinbeisser that was planned for by the Hares, but the Heurigen right next to the parking lot where they had Freistädter Beer, Rindsgulasch and Schinkenbrote. Excellent stuff.

On Out.

I always liked Heinz Baked Beans - what about you? Get The Who's Album The Who Sell out from 1967.

One more thing

2010-05-22T12:16:00.001+02:00

Just for comparison matters please check out the the clips below, one is a hell of an impostor (in Hashrelated terms only) yet a godly musician and the second trio, well, grew a little tammie since 2004, errrr..

And here come the real guys, or...
(Unfortunately, no more audio available for this track (sob!)

Signing off shortly

2010-05-20T23:50:00.001+02:00

We're planning to go to the seaside for a week (health of the family permitting) so no more Hash related news for a few days. Stay curious and thirsty and try to hit the Good Life.

On Out.

Simple and Beautiful

2010-05-20T23:13:00.003+02:00

On Norwegian National Day it was left to the Hares Harry Tosser and No Balls Prize to come up with a run that started in front of the Johann Strauß statue in the Stadtpark. Loads of Norwegian flags were handed out and a short little jog down towards the Donaukanal and then further on towards the edge of the Prater ensued.
There the gang bang bus waited with more Norwegian flags, the fantastic Dizzy Izzy Game, a big rope (for the tug-of-war) and a little parcours that waited to be used for a sack hopping competition (photographic documentary provided as mostly all the time by My Pint of View). Not to forget to mention the nearly cold beer!

Start it all off with the song stop. Feel free to comment and/or provide a suitable translation. I just couldn't be bothered as I did not want to take away this beautiful lyrics' magic.

To be followed by the nicest looking Norwegians that never were:

At the hop!

Tug of war

After this hilarious interlude it was on back to the Stadtpark, yet the wrong way which was the out trail. The usual longish Richard Kopf-led circle followed until we were allowed to wash our blues away at Flanagans.

On Out.

Cobwebs and Strange

2010-05-20T21:55:00.000+02:00

Wot's wrong with a little rainfall in May may I ask you? Just to whet your appetite I shall take the liberty to include a recent and brandnew pic from our very own Mr. Smile a bit further down. To be honest - which I am not supposed to be here folks - I have to give the Hares Mind the Gap and Casting Couch credit for trying out a bit of a variation which took the trail off the Donauinsel near the Nordbrücke and into the 22nd district which contains the Floridsdorfer Aupark and after crossing a major intersection near the Floridsdorfer Spitz, right into the old Wasserpark. Led by Mr. No Balls Prize, Gangster and Flying Dutchman, the crossover back to the Donauinsel and eventually back to the carpark happened in no time. Not too much variation possible with setting trails in this area IMHO.
The circle in the pouring rain mainly featured the unexpected appearance of My Pint of View and Circle Jerk who happened to drive to Brigittenauer Brücke (wring starting point) and then walk on over all the way to the Floridsdorfer Brücke. Tuff.

On Out.

A smile a day puts the rainfall away

And now, dig The Who. Get their album A Quick One from 1966.

Now night arrives with her purple legion

2010-05-18T22:12:00.003+02:00

I actually wasn't even aware that the Währinger Park existed, let alone that the Fischerbräu (one of Minuteman's favourite hangouts for Jazz Brunches) was so close nearby. Anyhow, very accidently Sex Energy asked me: "Fallen Angel is staying overnight with her grandparents, so why don't we do the Full Moon Run?". All I could do other than gawk in disbelief was to keep her asking on our way out to the 19th district :" Are you really sure you would like to make it there?". You know the answer as I am writing this, mainly for myself.
Amongst lots of familiar faces at the start I made out Death to Flying things (whom I first mistook for Needleman) and Anita Hanjob with her son, a keen runner indeed.
Running up and down and seemingly all over Döbling, nearly invocating Christian Eipeltauers Ghost again (we COULD have gone there after all!) and, having admired some Gemeindebau architecture and some HUGE villas of the rich and famous people, a beer stop came up with actually COLD BEER - well done Hares! - and the way back should have been the literal piece of cake - were it not that by following Ice Queen and Slush Puppie at least I lost orientation for a couple of moments until we got back to Währinger Park and it was only when Sex Energy phoned up saying "I got lost within Währinger Park" I realised that Whoppa and Pocahontits shared that remarkable experience.

A Full Moon circle can be a laid back experience and usually lasts much shorter than its equivalent at the once World's Worst Hash. Beer and lots of Food at the Fischerbräu concluded all of this.

On Out.


Your humble Hash Blogger sipping down a little wisdom

Body Transport

2010-05-09T23:06:00.000+02:00

Ah, start from Schwedenplatz! Try to find a parking lot nearby (don't forget the Parkschein unless you're keen on getting a parking ticket) and then get down the steps to the ferry station and meet lots of familiar faces.
The long initial stretch alongside the Donaukanal made up a bit for the drive to the venue and things brightened up - not just because the rain had stopped - when we were sent over to the 2nd district to the confines of the Augarten, right next to one of the Vienna Flaktowers.
High hopes at least a few of us had when we were sent on back towards the Karmelitermarkt in direction home, and even a beer stop was being held at the back of the old Kriegsministerium.
Alas, the endeavour led much farther and on over into the Stadtpark presumably and this is where quite a few brave ones, including No Balls Prize, Lady GoDiver and... gave in and took the short way back. The treat of the evening was warm Heineken Beer - sorry lads - but I am just reporting the actual happenings.
A visiting pair from San Diego must have liked all this so much that the payed the entire Pizzeria Bill afterwards, at least so I have been told.

As you can see, it took me a few days to come up with some halfway coherent thoughts about all this.
On Out.

The Other Way of Stopping

2010-05-09T21:35:00.000+02:00

A scenery that reminded a bit on the old days of walls and barbed wire fences, which is a part of the building site for the Lainzer Tunnel marked the meeting point for Sex-O-Phones run on April 26 at the end of Speisinger Straße in the 13th district.
A little rain before the run started must have washed away a bit of the flower as it proved a bit tricky to find some markings blah blah but, to add a well-deserved nice point to this run, the Hare(s) (S-o-P + Family) took us around and up the Roter Berg,

a vast green are with nice outlooks over the western part of Vienna. On up to the hilltop and then meandering back along the little backroads of that part of town and on towards the Wolkersbergenstraße and the Lainz Hospital. Does anyboy still remember the run we once had there years ago and the circle on that small sort of park where suddenly all the locals where our best friends (and wanted to drink our beer)?
After an hour or so it was back to the - longish - circle which was concluded in style at the fine Restaurant Waldtzeile. As far as I can remember, Father and Son from the pic below (one half of the Hare Family) enjoyed their food as well. Yet, that pic was taken before supper.

On Out.

Hello Goodbye

2010-04-25T23:01:00.004+02:00

Tradition has it that THE (or on of the) first Monday evening runs has to be set up at the Grüß-Di-A-Gott Wirt, well known venue of run # 1 in 1982. Again I was unable to attend but from what I heard from different sources rhymes not with C*** but rather with the following:
Start punctually at 18:30, do not wait for the latecomers but leave a little extra flower on the track, and, us usual, the only way is all the way up to the Habsburgerwarte.
Leave a few not so fast ones behind and meet them again on bottom of the hill (on the other side of course) and then avanti avanti back to the Carpark. Enjoy a few drinks, have a birthday celebrity present (Mr. Soul Survivor of Run # 1 in 1982)

and finish all this off with an extended meal at the Gasthaus.

On On to the Wolf, our friend from Frankfurt who passed away a week ago.

and - bien sur - the local equivalent being led by Mr. You Know Who:

Run for Water

2010-04-19T00:13:00.005+02:00

was being held earlier today from the Steinspornbrücke onwards, hared by Lord Glo-Balls (OVH). Check out the Website for this global Event to get some more info. I can't comment much on the run since I have not been there but, judging from Hash Flash Fotos, fun was had by all.

I just learned that the Wolf, a friend of the Vindobona Hash and a main organizer of many Hash Travels and a main force with the Frankfurt H3 has passed away. Let's raise a glass to this Gentleman. I know I will. And try to remember him, in Langschlag in 2002 of course on the occasion of our 1000th as well as on many other occasions thereafter. I'm glad I could make his acquaintance.

Can't think of a more fitting song for all this, from the great Mark Knopfler. From the Dire Straits' first album in 1978.
On Out.

Blank Expression

2010-04-13T23:27:00.003+02:00

Tickpleaser, a truly good soul and a well educated English Gentleman, offered to help me set the first monday evening run in Perchtoldsdorf which seems like yesterday. That actually WAS yesterday and , though I had the intention to do the setting and all completely unplanned - call it spontaneous - Mr. Tickpleaser rode his bike a week ago and came down with a measured 4,2 km route that must have led more uphill than downhill, which is always good, and which took us just 50 minutes to lay the trail.

Since Richard Kopf still can't get his act together as RA the temperatures were again low and we had pouring rain and lovely wind. This did not prevent about 20 stalwarts to come along and, as usual, 20 minutes into this short run, running stopped more or less completely and a common Walk was had by all, back to the shelter of the terminus of Tramstation 60 in Rodaun and a funny circle that followed.

The OnIn was held in Perchtoldsdorf Hochstraße at a very pleasant place called Angelinis, a restaurant truly to be recommended. Good food and drink and very friendly service and the owner became our new best friend when he offered a free round of Schnaps to everyone. Besides, Multiple Entry (crossposting from Moscow to New Delhi) and Beanman (still placed in Bagdad) came by, which improved the quality of the singing quite remarkably.

The Mystery of the Songstop shall be explained herewith:

On Out.

Waiting for the Big One

2010-04-13T22:51:00.001+02:00

Easter Monday is back and Slush Puppie and Ice Queen resurected the once popular location in Heiligenkreuz for a sort of rerun from the last time (was that last year or already two years ago?) without Mary Vetseras tomb this time, but lots of fresh Bärlauch and lots of rain and fresh air.

Easter Eggs were hidden at most checks but of course the real treasure box was that glorious bottle of egg liquor that was hidden at that raised stand for hunters and that quenched many a thirst. Sperminator and The Famous Pimpsqueak as well as the delectable Scarlett Pimpernell. Since there were no kids around this time there was all chance to grab those Easter Eggs by the whole lot, alas, I lost interest after the second check and apart from a chosen few who carried some eggs those must have been consumed during the run already.
The circle was a bit shortish as it was a bit nippy outside (I mentioned the rain and cold) and so it was left to the Restaurant inside the Stift Heiligenkreuz (and the occasional priest seeking shelter with the odd anonymous female at some corner table inside) to cheer everyone up and at least Richard Kopf confided to me that he hasn't seen Sex Energy "in such a joyful and talkative mood since 1962".
If that isn't something than I don't know what is! By the way, I am very happy to see Shiraz back and running with us.

Here's to the Beatles, 40 years later!

Stereotypes

2010-04-13T22:00:00.000+02:00

is not just a song from the second album from my Ska Heroes The Specials, I am also trying to avoid them by simply making up a little storyline that could have happened at this run that was Hared by Squeeze Box Mama and Morning Glory in Arenberg Park in the 3rd district.

Is there any such thing like a Masters Masthead (like Munk has been preaching for years), consisting of the usual suspects who secretly decide about all the really important stuff for the VH3, such as er.... start of the Monday evening run season, nice hot beer for the circle in the summer and the eventual GMship honoris causa for Glo-Balls and/or Free Willie?
Was this a spectacular run, leaving up and down the Flaktower and once around the Arenbergpark and then all the way up these stairs straight up to Squeeze Box Mamas fridge that used to be loaded with lovely Coronitas ever so often?
One can only hope those Coronitas won't turn warm so drink them while they're there.
Run info? Circle Happening? Who knows?

On Out, in absence this time.

Anyway

2010-04-13T20:46:00.001+02:00

Gaaden and its surroundings - though without too good a connection to public transport - are a nice place to go on a hike or, in our case, a run. Last time we went there - as far as I can remember must have been in 1999 with MEGATONS of snow all around.
This time featured a different weather forecast - slightly cloudy - and a different starting point which was the local cemetery, the end point to each and every Hash.
Very fitting to that I recommend to take a look and listen to the Chuck Wagon Gang if you're into Gospel Music. I know I am sometimes. Check this one out:

The trail was nicely leading around Gaaden and into the woods for a while, a little treat was a Chocolate St.Nicklaus for Slush Puppie and myself on the reason of our common 92nd birthday. I leave it to the esteemed reader to guess where there is an age difference.
It should also be noted that the Mautner Markhof family seems to own a huge part of the forest around Gaaden.
The highlight of the circle was a traditional Swedish Song and Dance performed by Uncle Bobbie No Balls Prize and visitor Big Tasty from Sweden.

On Out.

This video has of course absolutely nothing to do with Gaaden, this run or Hashing. Tuff!

Come in we're open!

2010-03-30T23:17:00.003+02:00

March 15. What can be said about Schweizerhaus opening day that hasn't been mentioned before? The same old crowd of the same old boozers - dare I say drunks - assembled at the usual time at the usual table. Usual business included a TV Camera filming our table and yes, we did make the local evening news, a few pics will be added shortly. Marathon Man came by from Cairo just for the occasion, Sex-O-Phone arrived at lunchtime and before long Alice, Lady Go Diver and (a little later) the Moron Brothers joined in. Yes we uphold our traditions and no we're not cheap.And yes we do still raise a glass or two to Minuteman, a true Schweizerhaus goer.

To follow up on the movie trailer from the last entry, here is the FZ sequence that refers to that film.

On Out.

Open up!

2010-03-30T22:30:00.000+02:00

Ah, the opening of the Schweizerhaus was immiment on Sunday, March 14. What lay nearer than to set a quick trail starting off from a very well known plcae which is the Wüstelstand Knusperhäuschen at the corner of Wittelsnachstraße and Rustenschacherallee not far from the Schweizerhaus. CoHare Munk and I took the trail down around the Dounakanal to same sort of the back end of the Jesuitenwiese and back more or less directly towards the main entrance of the where preparations for the opening on March 15 were busily underway. The beer stop in front of the main entrance of course featured Budweiser beer and after a short while and walk (or alternatively a free ride on the U2) it was on back to the car park and a rather windy circle.

On a completely different subject, Frank Zappa mentions the movie below on his album Roxy & Elsewhere from 1973. Give the trailer a look and give that album a listen.

Adios a la Pasada

2010-03-21T21:19:00.000+01:00

The ghosts from our past came back on March the 7th, impersonated by Multiple Entry and Flounder and their companion Dick Dastardly did set a course starting off from Augarten, near Donnie's old appartment in the Untere (or was it the Obere?) Augartenstraße.
Some remaining guests from the Ski Wee joined in on their last day in Ostricha and I have to admit that I was positively surprised that the Hares did NOT choose to let us run through the Augarten but rather decided to send the pack all the way back to the Donaukanal and on over into the first district. I can't really say that I am keen to run in the centre of the city on a Winter Sunday but nonetheless the Hares deserve some credit for trying to come up with a different route.
After running by the usual sights which is the Stephansplatz, Am Hof and past the Schottenkapelle (leavong Molly Darcys to our left), it was on back down the Ringstraße and over the Donaukanal back along the Augartenstraße to the cars.
My main feature of the circle at least was that Needleman bought a case of Budweiser Beer Bottles which made him immediately my current best friend during the circle :-)
A few friendly police officers (female and male) were curious about our noisemaking and singing, alas Slush Puppie failed to bribe them with at least two softies.

I’ll buy the next round
If you promise not to speak
Of this night again

(Taken from beerhaikudaily.com)

Are we undecided or what?

Le Hot Club de France, the best of the best!

Back to the Beginning

2010-03-18T23:28:00.001+01:00

Way back in 2001, when we all was younger, a bit more enthusiastic and a bit less disillusioned (just kidding), word had it that not only the Ski Weekers should have their run (plus a precious Stat) during their absence from Vindobona, nay, those we were left at home (i.e.US) also had a right for a run plus a precious stat.
All said and done, the string of now 10 Ski Week Solidarity runs began, preferably on the day of the Ski Week and my personal favourite having been that run when my then CoHare Munk led us all through the Allgemeine Krankenhaus (AKH) during the course of a Hash run. Can you imagine that?
On that event we had two handfuls of Tee Shirts made and a shortish little run that led mostly through Subway underpaths, a bit through the Museumsquartier (not really one of my favourite places, a bit too sterile for my taste) and via a small park back on over the Naschmarkt to the start at Karlsplatz.
A nice little circle and a slightly insulting phonecall to the Grandmeister himself (or his voicemailbox rather) later saw most of us (including two visitors) and not-so-regular returnee Death to Flying Things head off to Arthur + Arthur right around the corner in Gußhausstraße. Not the worst of places to go to, IMO.

The following song by Tho Who' s Quadrophenia has of course absolutely nothing to do with the Ski Week Solidarity run. But I happen to like it, for a very long time already.

On Out.

Random Acts of Happiness

2010-03-10T21:12:00.001+01:00

One would expect that on the first Sunday of the famous Vindobona Skiweek there would be a slightly smaller crowd than usual and once could indulge in their very own personal misery and grumpyness (like I used to a great lot over the past months).
Trés surprenant, there will still 20+ up at behind the end of Johann Staud Gasse ready to rumble and roll.
Since snow has decided to stay with us forever from now, it was no big surprise that more than half of the track was covered with thick layers of muddy snow. It was fortunate enough though that the Hare My Sisters Glowing Cee U Next Tuesday revealed that this run was a backwards repeat of a thing she had set a year a two ago. Sex Energy and our Fallen Angel, teamed up with all of the Sex-O-Phone family took an easy break at a slightly muddy playground nearby the carpark. Credit to them to have made it all the way up the hill to the start of the run.
"You know, it is all Molotow's V*ginas Fault since SHE wanted to set a run in ze Prater somewhere bu since she left for a trip to Bangkok what can one do?" or so I heard the Hare say.
The usual passing by of the Jubiläumswarte followed, with the usual suspects going all the way up on top. After lots more snow and mud on the way back on over the Steinhofgründe and eventually back to the car park, the circle - with Richard Kopf beating Flying Durchman in the race for the last place - featured the second Hasher who reached his 1000th run here at the once World's Worst Hash.
Munk is second only to Lord Glo-Balls (OVH) -look out for him-

to have reached this magnificient number and it remains to be seen when the official induction ceremony into the Order of the Vindobona Hash shall happen. Stay tuned.

In the meantime, admire the official Handshake:

Let's have this rounded up with the Jean Goldkette Orchestra in a recording from 1926, featuring the Keller Sisters and Al Lynch and of course my eternal Hero Bix Beiderbecke.

Felt Presence, Ghostly Humming

2010-02-25T18:37:00.002+01:00

I just went out for lunch for a glass of cool something with three nice Hashers ( a lady and two chaps and there ARE actually ladies on the Hash!). We met at Mr.Lis Cooking am Naschmarkt. On this perfectly sunny springlike day the four of us sat outside, had lunch and, as we were abot to order another round of drinks, were a bit rudely driven out be the waitress with words like;" You must go now, other customers after you want to eat and not just drink."
After this awkward sendoff I strongly recommend all you 4 official readers and of course ll other ones to stay away from this establishment as there are lots of other and most likely more welcoming places to be found at Naschmarkt in Vienna.

We want to share a drink with our friends whenever we please, n'est pas?

On a different note, the Order of the Vindodona Hash (OVH) will very very soon be inducting its second member. Watch out, either for tomorrows Blue Moon Run (including the same old beer stop in the same old brothel probably) or this coming Sunday?

Let's listen to some Toby Keith now, shall we?

A Raise of Eyebrows

2010-02-21T23:35:00.004+01:00

Taking a look at that poor guy above ( a Squonk) you know already that I am going to put in an entry about my last weeks run in an enormously depressing area (especially in winter, especially on a Sunday) called Industriezentrum Niederösterreich-Süd. Depressing of course only to run on cold Sunday afternoons when at the same time one could sit in an Irish Sports bar - for instance - watching Rugby and getting trashed whilst.

But, one must do what one must do. Truly in the tradition of last years Christmas run I put in a wrong name of the meeting place - old name Pizzeria Capricorno instead of new and lasting name Industriestüberl which made all of you drive a few rounds to get acquainted to the whole area, obviously :-)

Some short proceedings later, like collecting Hash Cash and getting reimbursed on my own expenses, it was on off on a casual stroll literally down long roads, admiring the sight of closed companies. As the place is completely flat all around, it provides ideal conditions to do a little jogging, an invitation that a few accepted willingly.

Then came the drink stop, with three bottles of Sekt (Hochriegl) and a packet of Mon Cheri and Raffaelo alike and to watch all these goodies disappear in no time made me realize that when planning for a nice little stop of something then always buy 50 % more than you initially wanted.

I persuaded the owner of the Industriestüberl/Capricorno to open the place up especially for us and to my great pleasure I saw the cook Ahmed arrive and open the main door, also much to the relief of all who needed to relieve themselves in privacy.

As Ahmed was completely on his own, food had been pre-ordered and drinks were poured by main aide Sex-O-Phone. General silentium is always a sign that the hungry got fed. Did anyone not like their pizza? If so, please leave a comment and tell me.

On out for now.

My hero Bix Beiderbecke, this time with the Frankie Trumbauer Orchestra, recording date January 9 in 1928.

Springtime in Siberia

2010-02-21T22:25:00.000+01:00

The northeastern edge of Vienna in early February (the 7th fot those hu r interested) can be an especially charming enviroment. That is, if you're into ice, fog, cozry temperatures below zero and a Grand Meister (Lord and Lady Stormin' so to speak) who seemed to have been a bit into running onto the flat. Terrain that is. Le Grand Meister warned us that the track would be outrageously icy and one should carefully watch their step.
A good part of the pack - including yours truly of course - took the shorter walkers trail which after some 45 minutes led more or less back straight to the OnIn even before the runners got back to the car park. A very welcomed moment to enjoy a cup of hot tea, bowls of classic Goulash Soup and the typical Roter Spritzer.
Mind you the temperature that day was all time somewhat below zero. A very refreshing drinking session later it was back to the carpark, but not before King Ralph pulled the Grand Meisters leg by phoning the good man up, telling him that our group of 8 got lost way outside on the Brünner Straße and needs a rescue transport back.
In no time did we see No Balls Prize's Gang Bang Bus (huge vehicle!, the GM by his side!) pass by and it took another explaining phone call to lure these two back.
Usual and nice circle, on out for now.

Get to listen to some Dizzy Gillespie in the meantime!

Who spiked the eggnog?

2010-02-06T16:12:00.003+01:00

A mere five weeks away from the famed opening of the Schweizerhaus. I am happy to report that everything is going its most useful way. The ice skating spectacle on Rathausplatz is in full swing, the beer prace remained stable more or less with 3,40 for a pint and the remainders of a very stubborn bronchitis are starting to disappear.
The last couple in the Winter were strenuous (Jan. 24, Hares MOM and My Sisters Glowing Cee U Next Tuesday) up on the Sofienalpe. I must have been fortunate enough that my lingering cold made me stay home rather then getting caught all the way downhill from Sofienalpe on the Höhenstrasse and then taking the bus back up on top.
Sunday last week (Hares My Pint and Joystick) was a "boring running track that I always use" (quote first Hare) with lots of Snow, Ice and Wind on around the Rudolfshöhe out in the 14th district, and I still try to remember why MOM got thrown out of the Supermarket he always goes to. If I remember to ask him next time, you will read that here first.
In the meantime, curtain up for another timeless classic from Frank Zappa:

On out.

Spring is getting nearer

2010-01-18T17:49:00.002+01:00

as you can see by the following link: http://www.steiermarkdorf.at/
This year from April 15 - 18 on Rathausplatz, mark your diaries. Looking at the pics from yesterdays run in Hirtenberg (look for the Hash Flash Photosite) one could say that there was a little snow and ice around. What the heck, there should always be time to do a little shopping afterwards (see below).
Looks like the Order of the Vindobona Hash (OVH) will soon be extended to a second member. Watch this space.

On out.

15 Minute Intermission

2010-01-17T22:53:00.002+01:00

Though the title of this entry is an old song by Mr. Cab Calloway I am putting up a couple of clips by the late Zawinul Syndicate when the were playing here in Vienna in May 2007 and, afterwards, the same song in a duo version together with Mr. Trilok Gurtu. Absolutely amazing stuff.
I just like to have some good music in the same place without searching too long for it.

Orient Express, Vienna May 2007.

Orient Express, Joe Zawinul and Trilok Gurtu, Part 1, date ?

Orient Express, Joe Zawinul and Trilok Gurtu, Part 2, date ?

The Plot thins

2010-01-17T21:53:00.004+01:00

Well, here we are. We're safe and sound at last in the soothing vicinity of our very own Hash House.
Mind the Gap and Kun't Tell Ya set a quick one (run that is a on January the tenth) down in very well known terrain, yet it is always a pleasure to return. A short and pleasant jog, never too far away from the carpark followed and lasted not longer than 45 minuites. You are encouraged to go to the Hash Flash Photosite (Link to the right a bit further up on this page) and check some part of Vienna in wintertime. Lady GoDiver bogged in her car a little bit in the snow and of course there were plenty of helpful gentlemen around trying to, well, unpark her car? (See Pics at the Photosite).
Is there anything more to say than that the VH3 Hash House may equal our bungalow of dreams? (recording from 1926 - I think - with my hero Bix Beiderbecke).

On Out.

Walking Wino

2010-01-11T22:38:00.001+01:00

A dear tradition has started in early 2002 if I remember that correctly, namely that (My) Sex Energy organizes an annual walk on Epiphany day starting mostly from Guntramsdorf (or Mödling trainstation) leading mostly on over the Anninger with the obligatory rest at the Anningerhaus.
If you ever make it up there then do try the Peasoup (Erbsensuppe). Truly Delicious.
Just Bob and Just Raija joined the fold as well as the Kunt Family minus the Great Kuntini. Taking the easy way into the Weinberge and up to the Richardshof then downhill again into Gumpoldskirchen and it was time for a decent winostop, comprising of tasty Cabernet Sauvignons, Weiße Spritzer and Liptauerbrote.

Not much to report other than leading enjoyable conversations with all participants, then getting into Baden, taking the reliable Badner Bahn back to Guntramsdorf and finishing the day off at Baitschev, venue of many an OnIn in the past.

Thanks to our cowinowalkers and all of you feel free to join in next year.

Na denn prost, dass die Gurgel net verrost'!. (This one is especially for SBM)

Turn it on Again

2010-01-10T21:06:00.001+01:00

at that biggish Church out at Hafnerberg. Where the frog is Hafnerberg to be found I hear you asking? Iif you are from Niederösterreich you may know that the way to Hafnerberg leads also further down to Mariazell .
And we all know of course that not only the Ötscherbär is to be found in and around Mariazell.
The pleasant drive to the venue through Alland may have lasted a bit but was rewarding when the aforementioned Church came in sight. Some introductory words by the Hares first and then on very much up the nearest hill and into the forest and further up until a Druidenstein named Fuchshofnadel was chosen for a Hashview, nice place indeed.
Further on over a windy field led by King Ralph and on down (and up again) into the snowy forest, having a short chitchat with our dearly beloved Grand Meister himself and then it was another slippery downhill path that made one or two people fall (where has my memory gone?)
Eventually Little Tichard and Tickpleaser, followed by yours truly and King Ralph made it downhill first and when Dr.Kunt with the Great Kuntini came our way my thought was "If that kid can do it the we can do it too" and the carpark ws reached shortly after.
Shortish circle (45 minutes) in the freezing cold. New surroundings, new views. Thanks for all that Jazz.

Mr. Bing Crosby sings a little tune at the end of that wonderful movie called High Society.
On out.

Back with a bang

2010-01-03T18:46:00.003+01:00

First of all, Happy and Hashy New Year to all of you out there. Over the last few days I even spent a few minutes - well, 2 seconds rather on what happenings I remember here at the once World's Worst Hash over the past 10 years. Good old Canada Dry (who?) has already left back in 1998, to be followed by No Mercy Master and Cheeky, Mr. Davolino Mr. BOB Davolino and Frequently French, my special amigo Minuteman and all those other remarkable personalities that have helped to shape our Hashclubs well-deserved and once world's worst image.
Well, returning to the subject of the glorious Red Dress Run that always leads once around the Ringstrasse in the centre of Vienna. About 25 left standing made it, minus the prominent absentees Lord Glo-Balls (OVH), our dearly beloved Grand Meister himself and Munk.

After the ususal photo shoots and a couple of warm-up beers it was on off with the obligatory climbing rope, provided by MTG. The sight of a singing crowd dressed all in red hanging on to a rope was enough to put a smile on many bystanders faces. Unlike previous years there were no defectors on the run meaning that the pack managed to stay together - at a reasonably slow pace - and we all crossed the finish line sideways and nicely blocking off the road for all the other runners. Take a look.

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The circle was a loose affair back at our old spot next to the winners podium inside the Ringstrassen Gallerien and it was after half an hours already that two friendly security guys tried to chase us away and I unsuccessfully tried to bribe them with two cans of Coke. Remember the one that came along a few years agao when e were feasting upstairs? We poured him a few whisky shots, gave him three beers and since then he was our very best friend.

Tequila Sunrises were mixed and poured and very tasty, beers have been consumed in plenty and yet another fine on after at Flanagans concluded the Hashing year of 2009. And I can report that I came up with one of my worst Hangovers of the past few years.

On out.

Make this year a singing one, just like Charles Trenet.

And don't forget to keep your Sunny Side Up!

Have yourself a Merry One

2009-12-24T22:22:00.002+01:00

Well, what's all this stuff about global warming? I went out last Friday to a pub called Fiddlers Greenvirtually in the middle of nowhere, way behind Alland, Mayerling and Maria Raisenberg to see a show called Irish Christmas Festival provided by a Mr. Dietmar Hasslinger, I recommend to check out his site Weltenklang.
This promoter brings Irish Musicians to Ostrichland on a regular basis, I have been to many such a show in previous years and this time there was a trio called the Trad Lads, augmented by two Tap and Step Dancers, and a very fine quintet called Slide who played contemporary Irish Folk and if I may say so, these guys were clicking on all cylinders. Check them out if you like and if you're interested in this type of music.
Anyhow, driving home from the middle of nowhere was a pleasure of its own in -18 degrees in the darkest of all nights and I sure cound myself lucky that the car battery did not give in.

The consecutive Sunday we ventured out to set a wee and tiny little trail around Mödling at -12 degrees (yup, I just said -12). Snow was all around, two drink stops were planned for and the tactic was to make it short and spend more time dwinking the hot stuff. Well, some runners were late, some were very late, some started to panic over the phone (no names will be mentioned, it was just a Pain in the Ass) and in to time two groups of three Hashers each got lost (the entire Kunft family as well as the Moron Department with Mrs. Standing There).

I had to take care of ussy Schumi who lost briefly, then Richard Kopf and Rhymes with C* reappeared out of nowhere as she had just missed her flight to work somewhere over the great pond on some sort of huge vessel.
Got to the first drinkstop which was at a stall from a Christmas tree vendor from Styria who provided "Schnapstee" by his own defintion, well, at least the potion was warm.
Got to the second drinkstop which was the smaller of Mödlings two annual Christmas markets and still no sight of all the missing ones. No phonecalls were answered and fate had it that they all went back to the carpark already and missed out the better bit (which was less than 200 metres away from the cars).
After a short circle (still at - 12) those who were left went over to the intended OnIn which opened up its gates a few minutes after reservation time and so it was left to the last 8 standing to make it down the road to a very fine pizzeria. My personal lesson learned is to use polenta next time. Hear those mobile phones ring I say!

Mele Kalikimaka to all of you.