What is hashing and how does it work?

• Glad you asked.  You can find a brief description of our organised chaos in our KnowledgeBase.

What time do you run at?

• We aim to leave at 7.30 pm.  Hashers will generally arrive at the starting point from 7 pm onward.  We aim to be back at the start about an hour later.

How long is the run?

• Half the distance from its middle to the end.  Hares are advised that it should last an hour and they should take the terrain into account.  This means it can vary from 3-5 miles.   However, it is not compulsory to complete the whole trail and there are often shortcuts marked.  The trails are designed to keep everyone together.  This means that the faster runners usually cover more distance than the slower runners/walkers.

Where do you run?

• Our runs are typically within a 30 minute drive of Guildford, although choosing the location is the Hare’s prerogative.  Being situated next to the Surrey Hills means that we have plenty of lovely country paths and pubs to enjoy.

What kit do I need?

• Basic running kit is fine.  We generally run off road, so trail shoes are better than road shoes.  We run in all weathers the whole year round, so dress for the weather.  In the winter you will need a torch – there are no streetlights on country footpaths.  You may get wet and muddy on trail so a change of clothes is advisable for after the run.  Bear in mind that you might well be getting changed in a car park.

How much does it cost?

• Your first run with us is free.  After that it’s £2/run.  If you are likely to run with us regularly it works out a lot cheaper to set up a standing order for £10/quarter (see here for more details).

Do I have to drink?

• No.  As most of our pack drives to the hash we never force anyone to drink alcohol.  If you want a non-alcoholic down down, just let the RA know.

Can I bring a dog along?

• Well behaved dogs are welcome – we even have one as a co-GM.   However, we actually require more from them than our two-legged hashers.  We expect them to be used to running with more than one person and not be likely to pose a moving obstacle or hindrance to the pack (unlike some hashers – Ed).  As a lot of our runs are in the countryside there will be opportunities to let them off the leash but they need to be able to follow basic commands (unlike some hashers – Ed).  If you do bring your hash hound along they are your responsibility for the whole run, even if they bolt off.

Can I bring kids along?

• Well behaved kids are welcome.   However, we actually require more from them than our older hashers.  We expect them to be used to running with more than one person and not be likely to pose a moving obstacle or hindrance to the pack (unlike some hashers – Ed).  As a lot of our runs are in the countryside there will be opportunities to let them ‘off the leash’ but they need to be able to follow basic instructions (unlike some hashers – Ed).  If you do bring your kids along they are your responsibility for the whole run.  During the winter, kids are expected to have their own torch.  Please be aware that the hash comes with a very big PG warning – hashers (and their songs) are not known for their subtlety or refinement.

How would, you like, my finger in your ear?

• Oh no! Not f **king likely! Not f**king likely! Not f**king likely!