NEW YORK. Tunde Onakoya, a 29-year-old Nigerian chess champion and advocate for child education, has shattered the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. Over the course of 60 grueling hours, Onakoya engaged in a nonstop battle of wits in the heart of New York City’s Times Square, capturing the attention and admiration of onlookers worldwide.
Onakoya embarked on this monumental feat with a dual purpose: to etch his name in the annals of chess history and to raise a staggering $1 million for children’s education initiatives across Africa. The marathon, which commenced on Wednesday, saw Onakoya facing off against American chess champion Shawn Martinez, adhering strictly to Guinness World Record guidelines.
Surpassing the previous record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds set in 2018, Onakoya’s determination and resilience propelled him past the finish line at approximately 12:40 a.m. on Saturday. Amidst a backdrop of pulsating African music and thunderous applause, including the support of Nigerian music sensation Davido, Onakoya persevered, driven by a fervent desire to champion the dreams of millions of disadvantaged children.
Reflecting on his arduous journey, Onakoya emphasized the significance of his endeavor, stating, “My energy is at 100% right now because my people are here supporting me with music.” Throughout the marathon, sustenance came in the form of copious amounts of water and the iconic West African dish, jollof rice, fueling Onakoya’s indomitable spirit.
Despite the physical and mental toll, Onakoya and Martinez adhered to stringent rules, allowing a mere five minutes of respite for every hour of gameplay. Yet, amidst the intensity of competition, moments of camaraderie emerged as Onakoya engaged with supporters, even joining in their jubilant dances during brief reprieves.
The outpouring of support extended far beyond Times Square, with over $22,000 raised within the initial 20 hours of the attempt. Taiwo Adeyemi, Onakoya’s manager, lauded the overwhelming response from Nigerians in the U.S., global leaders, celebrities, and passersby, underscoring the collective effort to uplift the cause of education in Africa.
Back in Nigeria, where Onakoya regularly organizes chess competitions for underprivileged youth, the marathon garnered widespread attention. With over 10 million school-age children out of school in the West African nation, the significance of initiatives like Chess in Slums Africa, founded by Onakoya in 2018, cannot be overstated.
Public figures, including Nigeria’s former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, rallied behind Onakoya, invoking his own words: “It is possible to do great things from a small place.” As the world celebrates this monumental achievement, Onakoya’s record-breaking endeavor stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the boundless potential of individuals to effect meaningful change.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
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