FAQ
There are no dumb questions, just half-minded hashers.
Q. What is this club?
We are the Motown Ann Arbor Hash House Harriers. We are one of thousands of “hashing” clubs around the world. Our club was founded in 1987, but the original club “The Hash House Harriers” began in 1938 in Malaysia. You can find a ton of information about the history of the Hash House Harriers and hashing in general by searching on the Internet.
Q. So it’s a running club?
Yes, and more! Each week we meet up to run or walk anywhere from 3-7miles, with beverage checks along the way. Our trails run through streets, alleys, parks, woods, etc. Once we finish the trail it’s time for socializing and enjoying a few beverages during circle (after-run “ceremony”).
Q. Do I need to be a runner to hash?
We have a wide range of running and walking abilities represented in our group. We have ultra marathoners who run with us as well as folks who walk. Most of us fall somewhere in between. You can choose to run as much or as little as you like. The hash is really more about being outdoors and socializing.
Q. How do I know where the trail goes?
Our trails are marked using arrows drawn on the ground in chalk or flour. Just follow the marks and you will complete the trail. Trail marks and other hash “rules” are always explained before the run starts. (The first “rule” is that there are no rules!).
Q. Who lays out the trail and puts the marks down?
That person is known as the hare. They are responsible for choosing a venue, then designing and marking the trail. They are in charge of the run! Two members will often “co-hare” a run in order to share the workload or to show newbies how to hare.
Q. What happens if I get lost?
Rest assured, we watch out for one another, especially new arrivals. If you stray off trail, we’ll find you.
Q. How is the hare chosen?
Our members volunteer to be the hare for a particular run. All members are expected to occasionally be the hare, somewhat commensurate with how often they run with us. You won’t be expected to hare right away, and you can always ask someone to co-hare with you in order to learn how to do it. You can see the schedule of upcoming runs along with the names of the hares on our Hash Calendar.
Q. When do you meet? What is “hash time” vs. “real time?”
We usually meet up every Saturday or Sunday in the early afternoon. “Hash time” is usually a half hour before the beginning of the run. It’s designed to get hashers to the run location and it’s a great time to socialize. “Real time” is when the hare (the person setting the trail) gives any instructions and begins the run.
Q. How much does it cost?
As of 9/2024, our “hash cash” fee is $10 (in cash please). This gets you the trail, snacks, and copious amounts of beverages at the finish. At least $1 of the $10 fee goes back to the hash so that we can sponsor various events, such as Hashman (usually our Christmas celebration) or our annual volunteer Cheer Station event at the Detroit FREEP marathon/races.
Q. What’s with the funny names?
These are hash names. Every member or “hasher” has earned their hash name in some way. Ask a few people how they got their hash name and you’ll get the idea. A hash name is not something you choose for yourself, but is chosen for you by the other hashers after we get to know you.
Q. I see people wearing cool and funny t-shirts. Can I buy one?
Yes, you can! Ask the Hash Haberdasher what gear we currently have in stock.
Q. I was sitting in a bar one time and these hashers came in after a run and started socializing and singing really funny songs. Was that the “circle”?
Yep, that sounds like a hash circle. Hope you enjoyed the entertainment! The “On-In” follows the run. During the On-In there are “ceremonies” where the hare, new members, and anyone who did something notable (or really stupid) during the run drink a beverage while the rest of us sing bawdy songs. Sometimes, there is also “On-After” at a bar or restaurant, where you can continue to hang out, socialize, grab some food and/or other beverages if you wish (hash cash fee does not cover this).
Q. Can you tell me more about the circle?
Sure. It’s called the circle because the hashers stand in a circle. In the middle of the circle is our Religious Adviser or RA. The RA is a kind of MC or stage manager and leads the circle. Despite the name, this is not a religious event in any sense! The RA leads the group through announcements of upcoming events, opinions of the trail, and general accusations of debauchery and foolishness. After each accusation, the group will join in a song from our extensive songbook. The hasher being recognized is expected to step into the middle of the circle and take a sip, a drink or a gulp from their beverage cup while the rest of the hashers sing the song.
Q. It sounds a little intimidating. Will I be forced to drink alcoholic beverages?
Nope. You won’t be forced to do anything. If you are called into the circle, you may sip as little or as much beverage as you want. If you don’t want to drink any alcoholic beverages at all, that’s fine too! Some sub in water or other beverage of choice. The circle is about entertainment and social comradery, not hazing. If you have a sense of humor and an open mind, you’ll have a great time.
Q. How do I join?
Motown-Ann Arbor Hash House Harriers is a laid back and welcoming group. You simply show up.