Nigerian Chess Champion Breaks Guinness World Record with 58-Hour Marathon in Times Square

Nigerian Chess Champion Breaks Guinness World Record with 58-Hour Marathon in Times Square

In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Nigerian chess champion and child education advocate Tunde Onakoya has shattered the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon by playing nonstop for 58 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. The marathon began on Wednesday and culminated in the early hours of Saturday morning when Onakoya surpassed the previous record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds set in 2018.

Playing against American chess champion Shawn Martinez, Onakoya adhered to Guinness World Record guidelines, which require two players to continuously play throughout the duration of the attempt. The atmosphere in Times Square was electric, with supporters cheering on the players and a mix of African music keeping spirits high.

The record-breaking feat is not just about achieving a personal milestone for Onakoya. It is a symbolic gesture aimed at supporting the education of millions of children in Africa, particularly those living in slums. Onakoya’s organization, Chess in Slums Africa, is dedicated to providing educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth across the continent.

Despite the physical and mental challenges of playing chess for nearly two and a half days straight, Onakoya remained upbeat and energized, fueled by the support of his community and the promise of making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children. His efforts have already garnered significant attention and financial contributions, with $22,000 raised within the first 20 hours of the attempt.

As Onakoya continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, his record-breaking achievement serves as a testament to the power of determination, passion, and a shared commitment to transforming lives through education.