Tunde Onakoya Begins 58-hour Chess Marathon in New York
Renowned Nigerian chess master, Tunde Onakoya has begun his bid to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, Excel Magazine International can report.
The event kicked off in New York City’s Times Square at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, April 17, and is scheduled to conclude at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 19.
Onakoya announced the start of the marathon on his X social media platform, captioning his post, “Game time.”
His attempt has drawn widespread support, with fans from around the globe, particularly Nigerians, gathering in New York to cheer him on.
Among the supporters is popular Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold.
Excel Magazine International reports that Onakoya aims to play chess continuously for 58 hours, surpassing the current record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds set by Norwegians Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad on November 11, 2018.
He has dedicated his attempt to “the dreams of millions of children across Africa without access to education.”
The chess community and observers worldwide are watching closely as Onakoya endeavors to make history with this physically and mentally demanding challenge.
