Nigerian chess master, Tunde Onakoya, set a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon on Saturday. On his official X account, he confirmed the achievement, expressing determination to push the feat to 60 hours.
His motivation? A fundraising goal to support the education of underprivileged African children worldwide. Onakoya surpassed the previous record of 56 hours, 9 minutes set by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018.
Conducted in New York City’s Times Square, the marathon aimed not only to break records but also to raise awareness and funds for educational opportunities in Africa. Onakoya was joined by his US counterpart, Shawn Martinez, for the challenge, with both players holding the title of National Masters.
The participation of Martinez marked a critical point in the attempt, as the rules stipulated a team effort for the record. Nigerian dignitaries, including President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as well as musicians Davido and Adekunle Gold, rallied in support of Onakoya’s endeavor.
