Nigerian Chess Champion Breaks Guinness World Record with 60-Hour Marathon for Children’s Education
Nigerian Chess Champion Breaks Guinness World Record with 60-Hour Marathon in Times Square
In a remarkable display of determination and skill, Nigerian chess champion Tunde Onakoya has broken the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon by playing nonstop for an impressive 60 hours in New York City’s iconic Times Square.
Onakoya, 29, embarked on this record-breaking attempt with the goal of raising $1 million for children’s education across Africa. His organization, Chess in Slums Africa, aims to support the education of at least 1 million children living in slums on the continent.
Playing against American chess champion Shawn Martinez, Onakoya surpassed the previous record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds set in 2018. The atmosphere in Times Square was electric, with a blend of African music keeping supporters entertained and cheering Onakoya on throughout the marathon.
Despite the grueling challenge, Onakoya’s energy remained high, fueled by the support of his fans and the occasional break for water and jollof rice, a popular West African dish. The record attempt garnered significant attention online and at the scene, with over $22,000 raised within the first 20 hours.
Onakoya’s efforts have not gone unnoticed in Nigeria, where he is known for organizing chess competitions for underprivileged youth. With over 10 million school-age children out of school in the country, his advocacy for education is more important than ever.
Celebrities and public figures, including Nigeria’s former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, have publicly supported Onakoya in his mission. Osinbajo’s message to Onakoya, “It is possible to do great things from a small place,” serves as a reminder of the impact one individual can have on a community.
As the Guinness World Record organization reviews Onakoya’s achievement, the chess champion’s dedication to improving children’s access to education serves as an inspiration to all.