Chess Champion Michal Mazurkiewicz Makes Waves with Guinness World Record in Diving Chess

Chess and swimming may seem like an unusual combination, but for CM Michal Mazurkiewicz from Poland, it is the perfect blend of mental and physical endurance. The 34-year-old has made waves by earning a well-deserved spot in the Guinness World of Records for the “Most simultaneous diving chess opponents.”

The Guinness Book of World Records is the world’s most-sold book, tracking many spectacular records, including chess. Chess.com previously covered all Guinness chess records, from the longest chess marathon to the “Fastest time to arrange a chess set while being blindfolded.”

Among the many spectacular records, Mazurkiewicz has secured his Guinness record in diving chess, perhaps one of the most unique disciplines. The physically demanding sport is played in a swimming pool, with a submerged chess board and magnetized pieces keeping everything in place.

Players take turns diving beneath the surface, holding their breath while thinking about their move. Mazurkiewicz, the reigning Diving World Chess Champion, has won the event three times. “I’ve been passionate about chess since childhood,” he explained in an interview. “Swimming and diving were also hobbies, but I started training in the pool regularly after a back injury during the pandemic. When I heard about the Polish Diving Chess Championships in 2021, I thought, ‘That sounds like the perfect combination for me.'”

Mazurkiewicz eventually contacted Elan Ilfeld, the main organizer of the Mind Sports Olympiad and the inventor of diving chess. After winning three consecutive world titles, Mazurkiewicz sought a new challenge to promote the niche sport, leading to the idea of a Guinness World Record attempt.

The 34-year-old had to adhere to strict Guinness regulations, including playing against FIDE-rated opponents over 16 years old, one breath per move, and no diving equipment allowed. Despite the challenges, Mazurkiewicz scored 13.5/16 in the event that lasted around 100 minutes, only losing one game.

His dedication paid off, earning him the official proof of holding a Guinness World Record. Mazurkiewicz expressed satisfaction with his achievement, stating, “I’m very satisfied because I put a lot of effort and heart into months of preparations. I have never been a professional athlete, so this was new for me.”

Beyond the record, Mazurkiewicz credits diving chess for improving his chess skills, physical fitness, and diet. He doesn’t rule out future attempts to improve the record, saying, “I am pretty sure 20 is doable. I hope more people will have a chance to hear about this discipline and, more importantly, to try and enjoy it.”