Kelechi Ezihie is set to make history by attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the longest golf marathon, aiming to play continuously for 24 hours in late August.
Kelechi’s journey began in Lagos, Nigeria, where he was born as the third of eight siblings. His early years were marked by separation from his parents, who moved to the United States when Kelechi was just a year old, leaving him and his siblings in the care of their grandmother and uncle.
Growing up without his parents was challenging for Kelechi, as he often saw his peers being picked up from school by their parents and longed for that same experience. Despite regular phone calls with his parents, the absence was keenly felt.
After several visa rejections, Kelechi and his siblings were finally granted visas in 2008, allowing them to reunite with their parents in the United States. On December 6, 2008, which also happened to be his birthday, Kelechi stepped onto American soil for the first time as an 11-year-old. Kelechi and his siblings believed they were going on a two-week vacation to the United States. However, their uncle, aunt, and grandmother knew this trip was permanent. Kelechi recalled seeing his grandmother crying but couldn’t understand why. He kept telling her, “we will be back, uma,” with “uma” translating to “Mummy” in Igbo. Kelechi wouldn’t see his grandmother again until he was around 21 years old.
Adapting to life in America presented its own set of challenges for Kelechi, including learning English and navigating a new cultural landscape. He attended a private Christian school, where he built a strong faith and a deep relationship with God. However, the transition to a public high school exposed him to the harsh realities of racism and an identity crisis. Despite these difficulties, Kelechi found solace and inspiration in an unexpected place—the golf course.
His first job at a country club introduced him to golf. Initially viewing it as a sport for the wealthy, Kelechi soon discovered a profound passion for the game. The club allowed employees to play on their days off, and Kelechi seized this opportunity. Driven by his competitive spirit, he dedicated hours to practicing and honing his skills.
After relocating to Indiana for work, Kelechi connected with friends who shared his love for golf. They played almost daily, fueling his growing passion for the sport. When he returned to New York, he noticed a lack of Black golfers at events, which inspired him to create Golf Insights, a grassroots organization aimed at educating and inspiring new golfers. Through Golf Insights, Kelechi organizes corporate events and training sessions, offering a welcoming environment for beginners and those looking to improve their skills.
Despite facing adversity, including racist remarks and stereotypes, Kelechi remains dedicated to showcasing the power of perseverance. His latest endeavor—attempting to set a Guinness World Record for the longest golf marathon—reflects his commitment to pushing his limits and inspiring others.
Beyond the record attempt, Kelechi envisions a future where he continues to make significant contributions to the golf community. He has recently acquired land in Nigeria with plans to establish a golf center, aiming to inspire the next generation of PGA tour players. “Those who can do, and those who can’t teach,” Kelechi says, highlighting his dedication to making golf more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
As Kelechi gears up to break the Guinness World Record in late August, he reflects on his journey:
“This record attempt is not just about me; it’s about demonstrating that with perseverance and passion, anyone can achieve their dreams. I hope to inspire others to break barriers and make their mark, just as I am striving to do.”
