A Nigerian chess champion and advocate for child education engaged in a remarkable feat in New York City’s Times Square, striving to shatter the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. Tunde Onakoya, aged 29, embarked on this endeavor with the aim of raising $1 million for children’s education initiatives across Africa. His marathon commenced on Wednesday, initially targeting a duration of 58 hours but extending it to an impressive 60 hours, surpassing the existing record set in 2018 by Norwegians Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, which stood at 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds.
During the marathon, Onakoya faced off against Shawn Martinez, an American chess champion, adhering to Guinness World Record regulations necessitating continuous play by two individuals for the entire duration. A surge of support, both online and at the venue, accompanied Onakoya’s effort, with vibrant African music adding to the spirited atmosphere amid enthusiastic cheers and applause. Notable among the supporters was Nigerian music sensation David. Onakoya emphasized that the record attempt aimed to fulfill the aspirations of countless African children deprived of educational opportunities, underscoring the mission of Chess in Slums Africa, an organization he established in 2018. The organization’s objective is to facilitate education for a minimum of one million children residing in slums across the continent.
Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support, Onakoya credited his high energy levels to the presence of his supporters and the lively ambiance. Throughout the marathon, Onakoya sustained himself with ample water and jollof rice, a renowned dish from West Africa. Within the initial 20 hours, the attempt garnered a remarkable $22,000 in donations, as confirmed by Taiwo Adeyemi, Onakoya’s manager. The event garnered significant attention in Nigeria, where Onakoya regularly organizes chess competitions for underprivileged youth. The nation, plagued by one of the world’s highest rates of out-of-school children, rallied behind Onakoya, with endorsements from celebrities and public figures, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who lauded his efforts on social media.
