Nigerian Chess Champion Breaks Guinness World Record with 60-Hour Chess Marathon in Times Square

Nigerian Chess Champion Breaks Guinness World Record with 60-Hour Marathon in Times Square

In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Nigerian chess champion Tunde Onakoya has broken the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon by playing nonstop for 60 hours in New York City’s Times Square. The 29-year-old, who is also a passionate advocate for child education, embarked on this record-breaking attempt with the goal of raising $1 million for children’s education across Africa.

Onakoya initially set out to play for 58 hours but pushed himself to continue until he reached the impressive milestone of 60 hours, surpassing the previous record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds. Playing against American chess champion Shawn Martinez, Onakoya kept up his energy levels with the support of onlookers and a lively soundtrack of African music.

The event attracted a growing online and on-site audience, with Nigerian music star Davido among the many supporters cheering Onakoya on. The chess marathon was not just a personal challenge for Onakoya but a symbolic gesture to highlight the importance of education for millions of children in Africa, particularly those living in slums.

Onakoya, who founded Chess in Slums Africa in 2018, aims to support the education of at least 1 million children across the continent. His record attempt was met with overwhelming support, raising $22,000 within the first 20 hours. The event was closely followed in Nigeria, where Onakoya regularly organizes chess competitions for disadvantaged youth.

Celebrities and public figures, including Nigeria’s former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, have publicly supported Onakoya’s efforts. Osinbajo, in a message to Onakoya, referenced the champion’s own words: “It is possible to do great things from a small place.”

As the Guinness World Record organization reviews and confirms Onakoya’s achievement, the chess champion’s feat stands as a testament to his dedication to both the game and the cause of education for all children.