World’s Deepest Marathon documentary to premiere at Africa Mining Indaba
Extraordinary underground feat captured in film, highlighting innovation, safety, and human endurance in modern mining
A new documentary, World’s Deepest Marathon, will have its world premiere at African Mining Indaba on 10 February 2026, offering a unique glimpse into one of the most extraordinary endurance events ever staged underground.
The film follows 55 runners who completed the marathon held 1,119 metres below sea level in Boliden’s Garpenberg mine in Sweden.
Through in-depth interviews and exclusive behind-the-scenes access, the documentary captures the rigorous preparation, personal motivation, and collaborative planning that made this feat possible. It also showcases the technologically advanced, safety-focused side of modern mining.
Following the premiere, Rohitesh Dhawan, President and CEO of ICMM, who ran the marathon himself, will host a live panel with fellow participants including Corinne Smit (Newmont), Gareth Penny (Ninety One), Jonathan Price (Teck Resources Limited) and Ledile Dikgale (Kumba Iron Ore). They will share insights into what it took to achieve this record-setting underground challenge.
“Running at 24°C and 72% humidity, in total silence and with only headtorches for light, was one of the most challenging yet rewarding things I’ve ever done,” said Dhawan.
“Global audiences got a sneak peak of the experience through Minecraft content creator Seapeekay, who livestreamed Minecraft from the mine on Twitch, marking a real first for the industry and a powerful way to show just how far modern mining has come. Now we are sharing the full story through this documentary, giving audiences a real insight of what it means to run deep underground, break two world records, and support two incredible causes along the way.”
Terry Heymann, Chief Strategy Officer of the World Gold Council, added: “We are proud to have sponsored the development of this eye-opening documentary that will help bring the story of modern mining to new audiences around the world. This project aligns closely with our mission to build greater awareness and understanding of the critical role that gold mining, and the broader mining and minerals industry plays in society today and can continue to play in the future.
“By showcasing innovation, the highest safety standards, and the human spirit at the heart of modern mining, the documentary offers a powerful insight into an industry that has evolved significantly and gives us the invaluable opportunity to challenge misconceptions.”
Paul Gurney, CEO and Founder of BecomingX, said: “What excites me most about this documentary is it has real people at its heart. People who have worked for years in the mining industry and others who had never stepped foot in a mine let alone run in one. It shows their shared nerves, determination, and a powerful sense of unity as they attempted something truly extraordinary.”
The marathon was co-organised by BecomingX, ICMM, and Boliden, which hosted the event in the Garpenberg mine. The documentary was made possible thanks to sponsorship from the World Gold Council, one of the marathon’s official partners alongside Hindustan Zinc and Teck Resources Limited.
Attendees at Mining Indaba can catch the world premiere on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, at 2:15 pm, Red Sea Stage (CTICC 1), with doors opening at 2:00 pm. Seating will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
