Nigerian chess champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, has officially shattered the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon after playing continuously for more than 62 hours—and he isn’t stopping yet. Onakoya is now targeting an extraordinary 70-hour milestone.
Alongside American chess master Shawn Martinez, the duo began their challenge on Wednesday, April 17, 2025, at the bustling Times Square in New York City.
They crossed the previous record of 61 hours, 3 minutes, and 34 seconds—set by Norwegian players in 2024—on Sunday, April 20.
“We’ve officially broken the record!” Onakoya exclaimed on X (formerly Twitter). “For all the dreamers… If you had 70 hours to change the world, what would you do?”
The marathon is more than just a personal or professional triumph. Onakoya says it’s a call to action to raise awareness and funds for a transformative cause—building the largest free school for homeless children in Nigeria.
“This is a dream I’ve carried for years,” he shared. “Every move, every hour, is a love letter to children who’ve never known the luxury of a second chance. No child should have their childhood sacrificed for survival.”
Limited-edition chess sets have been launched as part of the fundraising campaign, with all proceeds going towards the tuition-free school project.
During the event, Times Square was transformed into a vibrant celebration of chess, with children joining in to play and supporters cheering from the sidelines.
In a touching moment, Martinez’s wife visited with their newborn twins, bringing a warm family presence to the intense competition.
Onakoya previously made headlines in April 2024 when he played for 60 hours with Martinez—surpassing the then-record of 56 hours. That title was soon overtaken, prompting this year’s renewed and record-breaking effort.
“If your heart has ever burned for something bigger than yourself, come find us,” Onakoya said. “Stand with us.”
The event is expected to wrap up later on Sunday, capping off a symbolic and physically demanding journey fueled by passion, purpose, and an unwavering belief in the power of second chances.
