Thousands of social runners from interstate and overseas will descend on Perth over the Easter long weekend as the city hosts Interhash 2008.
Tourism Minister Sheila McHale said Interhash 2008, a running event organised by the famous Hash House Harriers running club, was set to attract about 4,500 visitors to Perth.
“It is a real boon for Perth to be hosting Interhash 2008, which will showcase the city to thousands of visitors,” Ms McHale said.
“This is not an ordinary running event; runners will follow a variety of trails, including beach runs, bush runs, and urban runs through the city centre.
“The social elements of Interhash are as important to participants as the runs themselves, so we can expect to see many visitors sampling Western Australia’s boutique beers and world-class wine.
“I’m also excited that many participants are planning to use their visit to Perth to see some of regional WA’s unique attractions.”
The Minister said Interhash was a not-for-profit event which would also raise money for the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation with a ‘Red Dress Run’ through the city centre on Thursday, March 20.
The Hash House Harriers originated in Malaysia in 1938 and there are now more than 1,500 ‘hash’ clubs throughout the world.
Every two years, hashers gather at a destination for a week of running and socialising, then vote for the next Interhash host city. Perth beat Bali, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kenya, and Singapore to host the 2008 event.
Interhash 2008 Perth will be held from March 21 to 23, with the headquarters located at Gloucester Park. For more information, visit http://www.interhash2008.com.
Minister's office - 9213 6900
