35 Years of Greatness at Great South run : Shubho Hassan

Shubho Hassan, 26, from Portsmouth, and now based in South London, is running his first official AJ Bell Great South Run this year, and although he’s running solo, he’s carrying with him the spirit of a thriving community, that’s changing lives through running.

“The Great South Run holds a personal meaning for me. I actually signed up to run it last year, but due to the storm the event couldn’t go ahead. I decided to run the full route anyway, through the wind and rain and along the way I came across other runners doing the same.”

“What really inspired me was the handful of solo supporters who still came out with sweets and cheers despite the storm. That moment left a real impact on me, and I knew I’d be back to do it properly this year!”

This year’s AJ Bell Great South Run, taking place on Sunday 19 October, marks 35 years of the iconic 10-mile race, and the 2025 edition is already officially sold out, with record-breaking numbers expected to line the streets of the south coast for what promises to be the most unforgettable staging yet.

Growing up in Portsmouth, Shubho remembers watching the Great South Run and admiring the energy it brought to the city. Now, years later, he’s coming back – not to chase a time, but to celebrate community, consistency, and the joy of movement.

“I’m from Portsmouth, so it’s a special full-circle moment to return to my hometown and take part in something I’ve watched growing up. I’m not doing it to chase a PB, or to fundraise, I’m simply doing it for the joy and the community!

Shubho is co founder of Tom’s Run Club, a grassroots group that meets every single day at 7am in Burgess Park, come rain or shine.

“Many of our runners are just getting into running for the first time and didn’t see themselves as ‘runners’ before joining and I used to be the same. Now, I want to use this platform to show that anyone can become a runner, no matter where they start.”

Photo caption: Shubho Hassan (right) running with friend, Tom Payne – co-founders of Tom’s Run Club.

Tom’s Run Club, which started with just Shubho and his flatmate Tom, has grown into something much bigger, with more than 800 people in the WhatsApp group, and over 11,000 followers online. It’s now one of the most consistent run clubs in the world – running every day, and welcoming anyone who wants to give it a go.

“We’re proof that running doesn’t need to be about personal bests – it can simply be about showing up, for yourself and for others.

We’ve created a space that’s welcoming, pressure-free, and all about connection!”

Photo caption: Tom’s Run Club at one of their London events.

Shubho’s advice for anyone thinking about signing up? 

“Just sign up and start showing up – the rest will follow. You don’t need to be experienced or fast. You’ll find your rhythm, and you’ll be part of something bigger. Find a pace that feels good, take it all in.” 

It may feel tough during the training, during the race, but the joy and sense of achievement when you cross that line? Totally worth it. You’ll be signing up for your next race before you know it!” 

With thousands set to descend on Portsmouth for the biggest weekend of running on the South Coast, this year promises to be a celebration like no other.  

Limited spaces are still available for the AJ Bell Great South 5k, and the Junior and Mini South Run. This year’s 10-mile is now sold out, sign up for priority access for 2026.