World’s Deepest Marathon documentary premieres at Mining Indaba 2026

The world premiere of the documentary World’s Deepest Marathon captivated hundreds on the second day of the Investing in African Mining Indaba 2026.

The film chronicles an extraordinary, record-breaking underground marathon, featuring both novice and seasoned runners from 20 mining companies, as they confront darkness, silence, and the physical challenges of running 1,119 meters below sea level.

Filmed inside Sweden’s Garpenberg zinc mine, the documentary tells a compelling story of courage, endurance, and teamwork. The marathon, held in October 2025, saw 55 runners from 17 countries attempt the deepest marathon ever run, hosted by Boliden, a high-tech metals company. The challenge aimed to celebrate human potential, change perceptions of mining, and raise funds for multiple charities, ultimately generating over £1 million.

Runners navigated 11 laps of a 3.84km underground course with gravel floors, no natural light, and temperatures reaching 28°C, equipped with reflective running gear, helmets, and headtorches. BecomingX co-founder Bear Grylls emphasized the broader message of the event:

“This is about more than breaking records. It’s about proving what’s possible when we dare to push beyond our perceived boundaries, into the unknown.”

The marathon required intricate logistics, as the mine continued operating during the event and each runner needed 100 litres of water to complete the race. The project was supported by 23 sponsors, including the World Gold Council, Hindustan Zinc, and Teck Resources, whose leaders also took part in the underground challenge.

ICMM CEO Rohitesh Dhawan highlighted the significance of the event:

“This event shows just how far mining has come. The World’s Deepest Marathon not only supports great causes but shines a light on the innovation, safety and humanity that define the modern, responsible mining industry.”

Boliden CEO Mikael Staffas added, “Garpenberg was the perfect setting to show that mining can be both cutting-edge and purpose-driven, with conditions safe enough to stage extreme endurance events.”

The premiere was followed by a live panel discussion featuring filmmakers and marathon participants who shared insights on completing a 42.2km distance underground. Participants spoke about personal growth, inclusion, and community impact. Runner Corinne Smit of Newmont reflected:

“This race has helped to change the narrative about the mining industry.”

Teck CEO Jonathan Price, who recently recovered from hip surgery, added, “I loved getting back to something I missed. I also appreciated helping to tell a story of inclusion in mining. Our race included men, women, and people from all kinds of backgrounds, right across the world.”

Ledile Dikgale, drill and blast technical manager at Kumba Iron Ore, shared, “The marathon helped me see how strong I am. I was also able to raise funds for education and for wildlife preservation through the race’s online platform.”

A unique feature of the event was the absence of spectators underground, which fostered camaraderie among runners. Participants became each other’s cheerleaders, reflecting this year’s Mining Indaba theme: “Stronger Together: Progress through partnerships.”