What is Hash?

Basically a Hash consists of three main parts, none of which have anything to do with the herb that some people smoke, or the mushy corned beef others eat :

A RUN.

A trail is laid by one or two of the Hashers (the Hare/s). The trail is marked with chalk arrows or flour marks, depending on the terrain or the hare. The trail can be pre-laid the day before or begun just a few minutes ahead of the pack setting out (this is called a live hare run). At a certain time, the rest of the hash, (the hashers, hounds or pack) set off to find and follow the trail.

The idea is that the pack stays somewhat together; this can be done via false trails, cunning checks and sneaky loops. The fitter front runners will often do twice as much running as the "more socially-oriented" (er, slow!) members, but ideally should finish the run at about the same time as the rest of the pack. The length and difficulty of the run depends on the hare and the terrain but will typically be between 4 and 8 km or about 45 minutes to an hour's running, with checks, false trails, drink stops, and shortcutting.

A CIRCLE.

When the run is over the hashers gather together to drink beer and observe the "hash circle", which consists of drinking more beer, this time ritualistically. Down downs are awarded for various misdemeanours (real, imagined, or blatantly made up) as well as notable achievements - such as showing up. Visitors are always given a Visitors Down-Down, as are "Virgins" (first time Hash runners) and anyone else who comes to the attention of the committee. The ceremonies can last a couple of minutes or half the night depending on the level of fervor of the hash. With the changing times, drinking has lost some of its importance and clubs cater for non drinkers, those who will be driving, and those silly enough to think that Hashing can improve their health.

THE ON ON.

After the circle in some hashes, but usually before it at WSH3, we consume the food that the hare has provided. This varies from five star quality to something you wouldn't feed to your dog. This consumption of nourishing vittles, often resembling pigs feeding at a trough, may occur in the bush, someone's home, a restaurant or in a local pub. Another important part of the On On is the telling of jokes and all members, visitors and virgins should come armed with at least one joke or song, lest they be called upon.