Nigerian chess master and founder of chess in slum Africa, Tunde Onakoya, has reached a Guinness world record as he completed his 58-hour target as the longest individual in chess marathon.
His 58 hours of non-stop chess surpassed previous world record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds, held by Norwegians, Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad.
Tunde Onakoya, a young man known to make a positive changes in kids living in slums, began chess marathon on Wednesday, April 17 at the iconic Times Square in New York. He played over 150 games undefeated with his US partner, Shawn Martinez, and some other chess players.
The 29-year-old Oyo-born man aimed to raise funds, $1 million and awareness for providing educational opportunities to underprivileged children across Africa.
At the moment the chess master achieves his goal, a total of $92,808 has been donated, as he extended his tournament by an additional 2 hours, totaling 60 hours.
While engaging in the game, Tunde encountered some health challenges experiencing ‘intense vomiting and stomach pain’ but his resilience kept him going.
Fans and well wishers at home and abroad solidly continue to support the chess master while many await for recognition from Guinness Book of records.
Meanwhile, Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Singer Davido, and Adekunle Gold, have all shown support for Onakoya to break the new record.
Taking to his account via X app, Tunde wrote, “We’re pushing to 60 hours guys. We’re not stopping yet. Let’s keep going. We have a fundraising goal to meet for the education of African children around the world. This is our why – the reason we are doing this.”
“Let’s demonstrate to the world the incredible power of love. Together, we can make this happen.”
Some reactions are shown below:
nairafam said, “Nothing sweeter than a dream come true! What a champion!!”.
anjoladiipo said, “Thank you to the whole team that went to support Tunde ”.
agbonwa_ said, “I believe in Tunde’s dream guys. I don’t know how but I believe he’d reach the 1 million dollars goal. God will make a way for him when it seems impossible ”.
kdezak said, “Well done Tundeeeeee! Congratulations so proud of you! And a massive shout out, congratulations and thank you to Shawn Martinez. #chesskings”.
wearablesbyashabi said, “Well-done Túndé and thank you for making us proud.”
