Experience: I won the world's deepest underground marathon

"The race was in a Swedish zinc mine, 1,120 metres below sea level. That made it the world's deepest marathon, and everyone who completed it would be a Guinness World Record holder."

"I had assumed it would be cold, but geothermal energy and the heat from mining machinery warmed the surroundings to about 24C."

"We would also have to run in silence, as health and safety regulations didn't allow headphones. To prepare, I ran with my headlamp and helmet in the summer heat."

"On the day of the marathon, I was nervous but excited. I'm not claustrophobic, but it was unnerving to know we were so far underground."

A passion for running led to a unique opportunity to participate in the world's deepest marathon in a Swedish zinc mine. After years of focusing on family and career, the runner decided to join the event, which would take place 1,120 meters below sea level. The race attracted 55 participants from 18 countries, with a mix of experienced and first-time marathoners. The mine's environment was surprisingly warm, and runners had to adapt to the dark and silent conditions, training with headlamps and helmets.

Read at www.theguardian.com