How Tunde Onakoya Smashed The Guinness Book Of Record World Record For Chess Marathon [Photos/Video]

Image: Intel

Tunde Onakoya, the Nigerian chess master and founder of Chess in Slum Africa, has achieved a remarkable feat by setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest individual chess marathon, clocking in an impressive 60 hours of continuous play.

His marathon effort, which began on Wednesday, April 17 at the iconic Times Square in New York, surpassed the previous record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds held by Norwegians Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad.

Throughout the intense 60-hour session, Onakoya engaged in over 150 games, remaining undefeated alongside his US partner, Shawn Martinez, and several other chess players.

Beyond the thrill of breaking a world record, Onakoya's mission was deeply rooted in philanthropy. At just 29 years old, the Oyo-born chess enthusiast aimed to raise $1 million for providing educational opportunities to underprivileged children across Africa. As of his record-breaking moment, donations had reached $92,808.

Despite facing health challenges, including 'intense vomiting and stomach pain,' Onakoya's unwavering resilience and determination kept him going, inspiring fans and well-wishers both at home and abroad.

Numerous notable figures, including President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and musicians Davido and Adekunle Gold, have shown their support for Onakoya's record-breaking endeavor, highlighting the widespread admiration and recognition he has garnered.

Taking to his account via X app, Tunde wrote, “We’re pushing to 60 hours guys. We’re not stopping yet. Let’s keep going.  We have a fundraising goal to meet for the education of African children around the world. This is our why – the reason we are doing this.”

“Let’s demonstrate to the world the incredible power of love. Together, we can make this happen.”

Checkout the posts below:

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A post shared by CHESS IN SLUMS AFRICA (@chessinslums)

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A post shared by CHESS IN SLUMS AFRICA (@chessinslums)

Watch Nigerians singing the National Anthem at the Times Square below:

If I wasn’t Nigerian, I would be jealous of Nigerians too, forget the tribalismo twitter, Nigerians are one soul, one spirit!

You Got to love Nigerians 🇳🇬❤️ pic.twitter.com/aC04bfXExa

— A. Ayofe (@abdullahayofel) April 20, 2024

Source: Intel Region

#Tunde Onakoya
#Guinness Book of Records
#Chess Marathon