Norwegian Duo Sets Guinness World Record for Longest Chess Marathon: A Journey of Endurance and Passion
Norwegian Duo Sets Guinness World Record for Longest Chess Marathon: A Journey of Endurance and Passion
In an extraordinary feat of endurance and skill, Norwegian chess players Odin Blikra Vea and Askild Bryn have etched their names in the Guinness World Records by playing 383 five-minute blitz games over an astonishing 61 hours, three minutes, and 34 seconds. This remarkable achievement took place during the Norway Chess 2024 event in Stavanger, captivating chess enthusiasts worldwide.
The duo’s journey, filled with highs, lows, and even hallucinations, is now chronicled in a new documentary available on YouTube. “It was really fun to revisit that journey,” Bryn shared in an interview with Chess.com. “The whole process lasted almost a year from the first time Odin and I discussed the idea. The months of preparation became such a huge part of our lives.”
The documentary provides an intimate look at the extensive preparations that preceded the marathon, including medical examinations, consultations with a neuropsychologist, and rigorous physical training. The pair aimed not only to break the previous record but also to maintain a high level of play throughout the grueling challenge.
Bryn reflected on the mental hurdles they faced, particularly during a challenging stretch around the 24-hour mark. “For about an hour and a half, both of us were sitting there complaining about how much we hated chess and how awful it was. Then suddenly it disappeared, and it became fun again,” Blikra Vea recounted.
The psychological challenges of sleep deprivation were significant, with players allowed only five-minute breaks per hour, which they could accumulate for power naps. Neuropsychologist Thomas Mikkelbus had warned them about the mental fatigue that would set in after 24 hours, a crucial insight that helped them push through the toughest moments.
The marathon not only showcased their determination but also attracted a massive audience, with over 1.7 million viewers tuning in to watch the live-streamed event on Chess.com. The documentary features appearances from renowned grandmasters Magnus Carlsen and David Howell, who provided invaluable support and advice during the preparation phase.
Despite not being elite players, Bryn and Blikra Vea’s story resonates with many. “We wanted to tell our story and maybe inspire other chess players who aren’t necessarily super strong,” Bryn explained. “This is a record that two 1500-rated players could theoretically achieve. It’s not about chess strength. It’s about setting a goal and pursuing it.”
The duo’s achievement has sparked interest beyond the chess community, with even casual observers captivated by their journey. Bryn noted, “It shows that people didn’t need to be huge chess fans to find it fascinating. It was about the journey and the big goal.”
While the record was surpassed last year by Tunde Onakoya and NM Shawn Martinez, who completed a 64-hour marathon in New York’s Times Square, Bryn and Blikra Vea are not ready to relinquish their claim. “We’d like to do it again. It’s still something we feel ownership of. It feels like our record,” Bryn stated.
As they reflect on their incredible journey, the Norwegian duo continues to inspire others with their passion for chess and the pursuit of ambitious goals. Their story is a testament to the power of determination and the love of the game, proving that even the most daunting challenges can be overcome with dedication and camaraderie.