BREAKING: Tunde Onakoya breaks Guiness record for longest chess marathon

Chess master and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, has broken the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon.

Alongside U.S. chess master Shawn Martinez, Onakoya surpassed the previous record of 61 hours, reaching an impressive 62 hours.

Their ultimate goal is to extend the marathon beyond 70 hours.

Onakoya on X, wrote: “For all the dreamers! We’ve officially broken the record!

“If you had 70 hours to change the world, what would you do? Sometimes, you have to carve it out of your own breath, your own becoming. Not for applause. Not for records. But for the quiet dreamers who need to see someone leap—so they know it’s possible to fly.

“Every move, every hour, a love letter to children who’ve never known the luxury of a second chance. If your heart has ever burned for something bigger than yourself, come find us. Stand with us.”

The chess marathon, which began on April 17 in Times Square, New York City, is not just about setting a new record; it’s a noble endeavor to raise awareness and funds for a worthy cause.

Onakoya’s initiative aims to build Nigeria’s largest free school for homeless children, providing them with educational opportunities and a chance at a better life.

Throughout the marathon, Onakoya has shared inspiring messages, emphasising the importance of perseverance and dedication.

He has also used the platform to raise awareness about the plight of underprivileged children and the need for support.

In April 2024, he completed a 60-hour marathon alongside Martinez, surpassing the previous record of 56 hours set in 2018.

However, the achievement was short-lived, as a pair of Norwegian players set a new record of 61 hours just two months later.

Now, a year later, Onakoya and Martinez are back, determined to reclaim the title and set a new world record.

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