sports

Experience: I won the world’s deepest underground marathon

I tried not to think about the 1,300 metres of solid rock over my head

Experience: I won the world’s deepest underground marathon

TL;DR

  • The author, a lifelong runner, participated in the world's deepest marathon in Garpenberg mine, Sweden.
  • The race took place 1,120 meters below sea level in tunnels warmed to 24C and requiring headlamps due to darkness.
  • Participants had to run in silence without headphones, adding to the unique challenge.
  • Despite never expecting to win, the author finished first with a time of three hours and 17 minutes.
  • All 55 participants who completed the marathon became Guinness World Record holders.