Nigerian Chess Master Tunde Onakoya Breaks World Record with 60-Hour Marathon in New YorkApril 20, 2025 — Times Square, New YorkNigerian chess champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, has officially broken the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon after playing nonstop for over 60 hours in New York City.
The feat began on Wednesday, April 17, and concluded triumphantly on Saturday, April 20, at Times Square, where Onakoya played alongside U.S. chess master Shawn Martinez. He surpassed the previous record of 61 hours, 3 minutes, and 34 seconds, held by Norwegian duo Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad since 2024.
The event was more than just a pursuit of records. Onakoya dedicated the challenge to raising funds and awareness for children’s education in Africa. Through his initiative, Chess in Slums Africa, he continues to empower underprivileged children by teaching them chess, helping them access education, and building self-confidence.
Though official confirmation from Guinness World Records is still pending, global supporters and fans have hailed Onakoya’s effort as a historic moment for both African excellence and the global chess community.This achievement marks another proud milestone in Nigeria’s growing influence on the global stage through talent, resilience, and purposeful action.
