Frequently Asked Questions

So you found the hash, read this page to make sure whatever you’re wanting to ask hasn’t already been answered.

If you still have questions, email voodoohash@gmail.com.

 

Q: Is this a cult?

A: Absolutely NOT! Well, maybe. We are a world-wide group of like (half) minded people that enjoy acquiring a good thirst and satisfying it with beer…and immature jokes…and name calling. You can read more about the Hash House Harriers HERE.

Q: OK, so sort of a cult, what am I agreeing to by showing up?

A: The objectives as set forth by “G” in 1938 are:

  • To promote physical fitness among our members: Expect a good run or solid walk
  • To get rid of weekend hangovers: We lay the foundation for them
  • To acquire a good thirst and satisfy it in beer: Or your beverage of choice, BYOB
  • To persuade the older members that they are not as old as they feel.

Q: When do you meet?

A: Every Thursday at 6:30pm. Try to show up between 6:30 and 7 for a pre-lube beer and chalk talk. If you’ve never hashed before, you WILL want to hear chalk talk. Just look for a bunch of people in crazy costumes standing around. The hare(s) take off at 7pm. If you show up late and we’re gone, just follow the flour and catch up.

Q: You are using funny words – Hare? Chalk Talk?

A: We play a form of a “paper chase” game. The Hare will lay trail in flour or chalk and the pack sets off to solve the trail and celebrate with beer!  Chalk Talk is where we learn what the mysterious symbols mean and the “rules” to solve the trail. Be warned: Hare’s often lie! You can learn more on our Chalk Talk page.

Q: Sounds cool so far. Where in town do you usually run?

A: It’s up to the hare and changes week to week; we hash all over the greater New Orleans area, but not on the Northshore.

Q: Hold up – Why is that guy wearing a necklace that says “What’s Warm”?

A: If you’ve been hashing long enough, the group will bestow upon you the honor of your very own hash name. This is the name you will forever be known by to hashers worldwide. It is usually based on something particularly memorable that you’ve done or said. Hash names tend to be puns, double entendres, or just plain dirty.

Q: I want to ride my bike/motorcycle/velocipede to the hash. Is there somewhere to stash my helmet/bag?

A: The beer truck is always available to hold bags. In the summer, we encourage everybody to bring a bag with a towel and/or change of clothes since you will be sweaty and maybe dirty by the end.

Q: I don’t drink beer. Is that okay?

A: We take it as a personal insult, but if you insist, we’ll let it slide. But just this once. No seriously, you absolutely do not have to drink beer, or any alcohol, if you so choose.

Q: Can I bring my dog?

A: Sure, but your dog MUST be on a LEASH at ALL times and well socialized around people and other dogs. Also make sure you bring water, poop bags, and water. Did we mention WATER? Yes, even in the winter. Dogs don’t sweat, it’s harder for them to cool down.

Q: Can I bring my kid?

A: No. Unless your kid is 21, then sure!

Q: I am just starting to get the hang of this running thing, Are there joggers or walkers?

A: Yes. The hash welcomes people of all fitness levels. Hares often scout and lay a special walkers’ trail with the same marks to ensure that everyone gets in on the fun.

Q: How far do y’all run? I am pretty out of shape.

A: Runs vary in length, but we shoot for 3-5 miles of true trail. You may end up running farther if you hit false trails and/or lots of checks. The best way to get in shape is to show up. ‘Pain is weakness leaving the body’ and all that jazz. Also, round is a shape, so you’re never out of shape.

Q: But I’m old.

A: Take your damn pills and come out anyway. We have a wide range of ages – all are welcome.

Q: I don’t have a car. Can I get a ride?

A:  Sure! If you are new or a visiting hasher, the best way to find a ride is to send a message to the group on Facebook or Instagram — you must answer the membership questions to be added to the Facebook group. E-mail works too – voodoohash@gmail.com. Uber and Lyft are also active in the city and we technically have a public transportation system.

Q: I’m going to be lame and not bring a six-pack of beer. Why do I suck?

A: We are a BYOB group. If you don’t bring something to drink, I hope you have friends that will share. This is New Orleans, someplace close to start will sell alcohol, bring monies. Be prepared, don’t be lame.

Q: Should I wear my fancy new running gear to show off how awesome I am?

A: Yes, yes you should. By the way, have you ever tasted beer filtered through a dirty athletic sock? ;-)

Q: Is there some way I can be notified of upcoming hashes?

A: If you don’t want to check this site for trail info every week, the easiest way get info on the latest trails is to follow us is on Instagram (@voodooh3) or by joining the Facebook group.