With a target of 58 hours, Onakoya is determined to make a difference in the lives of millions of children across the world
Nigerian chess master, Tunde Onakoya, is making headlines as he continues the ambitious challenge to break the Guinness World Record for the longest unbeaten chess marathon.
With a target of 58 hours, Onakoya is determined to make a difference in the lives of millions of children across the world
As of Thursday evening, he has already crossed the 24-hour mark, playing 60 games undefeated with his partner, CoachShawnMar.
Despite feeling fatigued, Onakoya remains resolute, stating;
"It's officially 1 full day of playing continuous chess in our attempt to break the
@GWR for longest chess marathon. @CoachShawnMar and I have played 60 games and the fatigue is naturally setting in. But one thing we will not do is stop.
"We will raise a million dollars and bring the gift of chess to children across the world. Your support is needed now, more than ever."
It's officially 1 full day of playing continous chess in our attempt to break the @GWR for longest chess marathon. @CoachShawnMar and I have played 60 games and the fatique is naturally setting in. But one thing we will not do is stop. We will raise a million dollars and bring... pic.twitter.com/A1LD07Caar-- Tunde Onakoya (@Tunde_OD) April 18, 2024
Record to beat
The current record stands at 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds, set by Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad of Norway in November 2018.
Onakoya is determined to surpass this record, fueled by his passion for empowering children through education.
Onakoya's initiative has garnered support from Nigerian dignitaries, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
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Onakoya on Thursday also revealed the support from Nigeria's Consul-General in New York City and his team.
He wrote: Ambassador Peter Lot Egopija, Nigeria's Consul-General in New York City, and his team dropped by Times Square to show their support for our world record attempt.
Ambassador Peter Lot Egopija, Nigeria's Consul-General in New York City, and his team dropped by Times Square to show their support for our world record attempt.#ChessMarathonForChange#Tunde58hoursOfChess pic.twitter.com/IrGm5BY61l-- Tunde Onakoya (@Tunde_OD) April 18, 2024
Onakoya's Chess in Slums project has already made a significant impact, providing opportunities for young people in marginalised areas.
As Onakoya continues his marathon, the world watches with bated breath.
Will he succeed in breaking the record and making a difference in the lives of millions?
The outcome will be revealed on 19 April at 8 p.m. when the Nigerian chess master by calculation would have reached the 58-hour mark.
