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SETTING A HASH

A “Hash Run” should be set up like a fun and exciting “Cross Country Run”. It should be interesting, with elements of surprise, mystery, and intrigue. Most importantly, it should be safe and enjoyable for everyone.

In a Hash Run, participants called “Hashers” follow a trail of flour laid by “Hares” (the trail setters). The course is usually between 5 and 8 km long and includes false trails, “Boxes”, and dead ends to keep things interesting and to keep the group together. The goal is to have the first and last Hashers finish within about 15 minutes of each other.

Setting a well-marked trail requires about 5 kg of white flour. The trail is marked on the left side of the route and can be partially hidden, making it challenging to follow. If Hashers find themselves running down a trail marked on their right, it usually means they’re going the wrong way and might miss part of the trail.

When choosing a location for a Hash Run, consider the following:

  1. Choose a site away from busy urban areas to avoid disturbing the peace on Sunday mornings with barking dogs, blowing horns, and Hashers shouting “ON ON”! Be considerate when selecting a location and respect the environment by not leaving any litter behind.
  2. Get permission (preferably in writing) to use the site. (if needed)
  3. Place clear “Hash Signs” at prominent locations to guide participants to the site.
  4. Ensure there’s safe parking for up to 30 cars without blocking any roads.
  5. Find a clearing large enough to hold the “Hash Circle” for around 80 people, a shaded place is very welcome.
  6. Open country is not ideal for hiding false trails. Forests, cane field tracks, and hills with rivers to cross are better suited.
  7. Plan a good run for the front runners (FRBs) with possible shortcuts for “wimps”.
  8. Include interesting features like viewpoints, historical buildings, swimming spots, or caves to visit.
  9. Choose an area with plenty of paths and trails to use as false trails.

OUR HASH SIGNS

Trails are marked with flour (don’t worry, it’s biodegradable!)

Single Dot Hash SignSINGLE DOTS OF FLOUR mark the trail: (3 or more, it’s the right direction!)
Single Dot Hash SignSINGLE DOTS OF FLOUR mark a trail: (2 or less, it could be the wrong direction!)
A Circle Hash SignA Circle – checkpoint: (someone has to find the correct trail)
Two parallel Hash SignTWO PARALLEL LINES or an ‘X’: (false trail, go back)
A box with a number inside hash signA BOX WITH A NUMBER INSIDE: (wait for the number of Hashers before continuing)
Circl with a H inside Hash SigneA BOX or A CIRCLE WITH AN ‘H’ INSIDE: (hash halt, wait for everyone)
Circle with a X inside Hash SignCIRCLE WITH AN ‘X’ INSIDE: (back check, go back & find right trail – could be a long way back)
Arrow as Hash SignAN ARROW: (follow direction – up, down, left, right, into water etc)