Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya has broken the world record for the longest chess marathon, clocking over 58 hours of continuous play in Times Square. Surrounded by a cheering crowd, he surpassed the previous record of 56 hours and 9 minutes, aiming for the unprecedented 60-hour mark.
“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,” Onakoya tweeted.
Playing against a lineup of challengers, including local pros and enthusiasts, Onakoya’s mental fortitude shone through despite battling exhaustion. Reflecting on the grueling endeavor, he remarked, “I’m exhausted. My mind is sharp but my body is tired.”
Even with physical fatigue, Onakoya’s strategic prowess remained formidable. Tyler Schwartz, a seasoned chess player, noted, “He’s not playing physically as fast, he’s moving the pieces slowly because he’s exhausted, but mentally he’s incredibly tough and with it.”
Onakoya’s primary motivation for this record-breaking attempt is to raise $1 million for his non-profit organization, Chess in Slums Africa, which aims to provide chess education and support to millions of underprivileged children in Africa.
Onakoya’s marathon has garnered supporters from across the globe with cheers and donations pouring in. according to his manager, Taiwo Adeyemi., Onakoya surpassed $42,000 in donations within the first 39 hours of his marathon and within the first 20 hours of the attempt, a total of $22,000. Also, Goldman Sachs, a global investment bank donated $5,000 to Tunde Onakoya’s cause.
