Part of the fun of hashing comes from the variety of trail styles in different locations as laid by different hares. This guide is not intended to impose a uniform style on everyone, but to highlight some of the practical aspects of laying trails for WLH3. And while it looks like a lot, remember the primary job of a hare is to set a good trail with a good pub at the end of it; get that right and a good time will be had by all. And, to cater for differing attention spans, there are full and abbreviated versions of the guide. Download and read the full one here!
Abbreviated Highlights
Find a good pub that wants about thirty thirsty people on a Thursday night, with some real ale, somewhere to store bags, and not too far from a station (tube or NR) in west-ish London. There should be some interesting places to run, not just suburban streets. If in doubt, consult the hare raiser.
Work out a trail that is 6 to 8km long, preferably with some shortcuts. If in doubt, err on the short side, especially if it might rain. Go round it; don’t just use a map!
If you want to have a drinks stop, funding of up to £40 may be available. Check, in advance, with the hare raiser. You are always welcome to top this up, or fund one yourself.
Decide if there will be a P trail from the station to the pub; these are now optional. If you don’t want to set one, you MUST tell the hare raiser well in advance.
Set the trail, ideally just before it will be run. Use plasterboard, flour (not in the City of London), or pet bedding/ wood shavings (off road only). Make sure you have enough! Use “standard” WLH3 markings. If there is a P trail, mark it first, and clearly mark the start of the trail outside the pub. Make sure you’re at the pub by 19.00 at the latest for a 19.15 on out.
Go round with the pack, just in case they can’t follow your carefully crafted and laid trail. Mark checks for latecomers as you go.
Have fun, await a down down, and expect thanks and fulsome praise from the pack.
If you would like to volunteer to lay a trail click here