Running has always been a significant part of my life. My journey began in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales during my childhood, transitioned to cross-country running at university, and later evolved into marathon running. The thrill of overcoming challenges captivated me. After marrying my wife, Stephanie, in 2012 and welcoming our two daughters, Grace and Rose, my focus shifted towards family and career, leading me to step back from competitive running while still enjoying it recreationally.<\/p>\n
One day, I learned about a marathon organized by my company, and despite it being over a decade since my last major race, I decided to participate. A colleague expressed surprise, noting, \u201cYou know it\u2019s completely underground, right?\u201d I discovered that the race would take place in a Swedish zinc mine, located 1,120 meters below sea level, making it the deepest marathon in the world. Completing it would earn each finisher a spot in the Guinness World Records.<\/p>\n
Instead of deterring me, this unique challenge fueled my enthusiasm. Stephanie was supportive, though she found it amusing when I mentioned that my view during the race would consist of grey rock walls rather than scenic landscapes.<\/p>\n
Ultimately, 55 participants from 18 different countries registered for the event at Garpenberg mine in October 2025. Among them were seasoned runners as well as first-time marathoners, many of whom, like me, had never set foot in a mine before. I had anticipated a cold environment, but the heat generated by geothermal energy and mining equipment kept the temperature around 24 degrees Celsius.<\/p>\n
Fresh air was circulated through the tunnels to maintain adequate oxygen levels, and since the paths were largely unlit, we were provided with headlamps and safety helmets. Running with headphones was prohibited due to health and safety regulations, which meant we would have to experience the race in silence.<\/p>\n
In preparation, I practiced running with my helmet and headlamp during the summer, earning some curious looks from onlookers. As autumn approached, I shifted my training to nighttime runs to acclimate to the dark.<\/p>\n
On the marathon day, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement. Although I am not claustrophobic, the thought of being so far underground was unsettling. I tried to suppress any thoughts about the 1,300 meters of rock above me.<\/p>\n
The mine was active, and I could hear the machinery operating in the background. As we were guided to the starting area, I was intrigued by the presence of vending machines and brightly lit offices, creating a vibrant underground community.<\/p>\n
The tunnel measured five meters in width and extended over a mile. To complete the marathon distance, we would need to run to the end and back 11 times.<\/p>\n
While we had been cautioned about the heat, I wasn’t prepared for the oppressive 72% humidity or the darkness of the tunnel. Beyond the beam of my headlamp, there was only pitch-blackness. Nevertheless, the adrenaline surged, and I began my run.<\/p>\n
Typically, I listen to Eminem to keep my mind engaged, so it felt odd to run in silence. The most challenging aspect was the repetitive sight of the grey walls. The only moments of relief came as we passed the starting point, where supporters cheered us on.<\/p>\n
Initially, there was a lively atmosphere, and I enjoyed running alongside others, chatting as we went. However, as the race progressed and the groups began to spread out, I focused on the rhythm of my steps, reminding myself of the unique nature of this experience.<\/p>\n
I maintained my pace alongside my colleague, Michael, just behind the leader, Mika. The first 20 miles felt manageable, but the final six proved to be quite demanding. The constant running had disturbed the ground, and I could feel dust accumulating on my face.<\/p>\n
As we approached the finish, I noticed that Mika and Michael were slowing down, while I still had some energy left. Encouraged by them, I decided to surge ahead. Unsure if I had accurately counted the laps, I was thrilled when the cheers of the crowd confirmed that I had not only finished the marathon but had also come in first with a time of three hours and 17 minutes.<\/p>\n
I was astonished, as I had never anticipated winning. However, the most rewarding aspect of the day was the sense of camaraderie among all participants. We gathered to celebrate the final runner\u2019s finish, then went out for a meal and a drink, toasting our achievement. We all left as Guinness World Record holders\u2014a rare honor indeed.<\/p>\n
As shared with Jacqui Paterson<\/p>\n
Do you have a story to tell? Reach out to experience@theguardian.com<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Running has always been a significant part of my life. My journey began in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales during my childhood, transitioned to cross-country running at university, and later evolved into marathon running. The thrill of overcoming challenges captivated me. After marrying my wife, Stephanie, in 2012 and welcoming our two daughters, Grace and Rose, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":10797,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[597,2386,1654,88],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-10799","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uk-life-and-style","category-uk-marathon-running","category-uk-sweden","category-uk"],"yoast_head":"\n