Renowned chess master, Tunde Onakoya, has embarked on a remarkable endeavor to surpass the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, igniting excitement among enthusiasts worldwide.
Onakoya officially commenced his ambitious attempt, heralding the event through his X account with the rallying cry, “Game time.” The monumental challenge unfolds at New York City’s famed Times Square, kicking off at 10 am on Wednesday, April 17, and slated to conclude at 8 pm on April 19.
Support for Onakoya’s feat has surged, with Nigerians abroad flocking to the venue to rally behind him. Notably, Nigerian music sensation Adekunle Kosoko, widely known as Adekunle Gold, is among those fervently cheering him on.
The formidable task ahead sees Onakoya engaging in an intense chess marathon, striving to play continuously for an astounding 58 hours without succumbing to defeat. His pursuit is not merely for personal glory; Onakoya has declared that he undertakes this challenge “for the dreams of millions of children across Africa without access to education.”
The current Guinness World Record, established by Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad of Norway on November 11, 2018, stands at an impressive 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds. As Onakoya squares off against opponents in a test of skill, strategy, and endurance, spectators await in anticipation, poised to witness history in the making.