What Makes A Hash A Hash??

The original 1938 charter of the hash in KL stated this:

• To promote physical fitness among our members
• To get rid of weekend hangovers
• To acquire a good thirst and to satisfy it in beer
• To persuade the older members that they are not as old as they feel

Hashing is a group/sport/activity with not a single paid staffer, headquarters building or even a dollar of United Way money. And yet, you can goto almost any kennel in the world and at least 50% of their trail and traditions will be the same as any other kennel anywhere on Earth.

This is amazing and something that makes hashing very unique.

It is often said there the first rule of hashing is there are no rules. A catchy phrase that is not really true but symbolizes the inclusive nature of hashing. Almost everyone is welcome at the hash and each kennel is free to celebrate its own unique traditions and eccentricities.

American hashing is uniquely unique as we put great importance on hash names and probably more on socializing and partying. Even with this - the founders of hashing would still be able to recognize their creation - almost 70 years later.

Things that make a hash a hash - without a doubt the comradery and friendship and socialization are utterly critical to our hobby. It's great to know that a minimum wage earning virgin can attend the hash and feel welcome while surrounded by wankers who may be millionaires or PhDs or rocket scientists.

Beer is also a common and critical element of who we are and what we do. Yes, you can exist quite peacefully and successfully as a hasher without drinking beer but the golden nectar makes most of us happy and is the fuel that drives most kennels.

Just like there is room for all types of hashers in hashing - there is also room for all types of trails in hashing. Recently a hash was hared by an long-time hasher and done in an old-school style - no beer before or on trail and only minimal beer and food afterwards as his emphasis was to be on the socializing.

This throwback style is certainly legit but it is not the norm for US hashing or for Reading. Hashers expect beer checks. There is nothing wrong with that. It doesn't mean they are drunkards or even that they want to get drunk - BNs are simply part of the drama of hashing.

I see the "norm" for RH3 trails 651-700 as:

• On-time starts
• Beer and possibly snacks before the trail
• BNs on trail - preferably every 1 - 1.5m
• Beer and food at the circle. Food should be significant snacks so that everyone gets enough to eat or some sort of substantial grub like hot dogs or hamburgers or wings or corn nuggets.

Hares who want to lay an old-school trail or a Rumson-style trail (all beer and food after the circle is on your own) are welcome to but should make this known when they turn their info into the Trailmaster.

Variety is the spice of life. If every hash was exactly the same this would be a very boring hobby. Thankfully, there is room for all sorts of hares, hounds and trails.