Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya endured intense physical discomfort to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon in Times Square, New York.
Onakoya played continuously for an extraordinary 60 hours against NM Shawn Martinez.
The previous record of 56 hours and 9 minutes was surpassed, drawing attention from major media outlets globally. Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, aims to raise $1 million for children’s education in Africa. With significant social media following, his charity received $110,000 during the marathon.
The historic event was supported by Nigerians, global leaders, and celebrities. Organized by The Gift of Chess, the attempt aligns with their goal of donating one million chess sets worldwide by 2030.
Onakoya’s achievement was celebrated across Nigeria and received recognition from the country’s president.