Tunde Onakoya, a Nigerian Chess Master begins Guinness World Records attempt for longest Chess Marathon

Tunde Onakoya, a Nigerian chess champion, coach, and founder of 'Chess In Slums Africa', has set out to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon without a loss.

The attempt began today, Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at 10 a.m. in Times Square, New York City.

Tunde Onakoya aims to break Norwegians Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad's record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds set on November 11, 2018. He intends to set a new world record of 58 hours.

Earlier, on April 12, the chess master announced his GWR plans on social media, stating that he was attempting the record "for the dreams of millions of children across Africa without access to education."

“This is by far one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do, but one thing I know for sure I will not be alone through it all, ” he noted. “Need everyone’s support now more than ever to raise awareness and support for the incredible work we do @chessinslums and @thegiftofchess.”

Tunde Onakoya founded Chess in Slums Africa, a non-profit organisation that uses the game of chess to give underprivileged children opportunities for prosperity and success in society.

Tunde, who came from an underprivileged background, discovered chess as his only way out of poverty against all odds. His personal story inspires him to work towards the goal of making chess the ultimate messiah for economically and socially disadvantaged children worldwide.

SportsLigue