Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya achieved a remarkable feat on Saturday by setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest marathon chess. Onakoya confirmed this accomplishment in a post on his official X account.
In his post, Onakoya expressed his determination to continue the marathon, aiming to reach 60 hours. He also highlighted that the goal of the marathon was to raise funds for the education of African children worldwide.
Onakoya's record-breaking effort surpasses the previous record set by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, who played for 56 hours and 9 minutes in 2018, aiming to reach a 58-hour target.
The marathon took place at New York City's Times Square and has already exceeded 56 hours, setting Onakoya apart from the previous record holders. His initiative aims to raise funds and awareness for providing educational opportunities to underprivileged children across Africa.
Chess in Slums Africa, Onakoya's foundation, stated that the record attempt required a team of two players, with Onakoya facing off against US National Master Shawn Martinez. Martinez, a renowned New York City chess legend and coach, joined the marathon after about 23 hours into the game, contributing to the new world record.
Notable Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and musicians Davido and Adekunle Gold, have shown support for Onakoya in his record-breaking endeavor.
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