Nigerian chess champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, has commenced his second attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon in New York City’s Times Square
[dropcap]T[/dropcap]unde Onakoya, the visionary founder of Chess in Slums Africa, has embarked on his second ambitious journey to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon.
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The Nigerian chess champion commenced his attempt in the vibrant setting of Times Square, New York City, on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
Mr. Onakoya’s goal is to play continuous chess games for an impressive 70 hours without suffering a single loss.
A video shared by his handler on X captured the electrifying countdown to the commencement of his attempt, with enthusiastic fans gathered around him, offering words of encouragement and support.
This attempt comes exactly one year after his initial bid for the record. In April 2024, Tunde Onakoya successfully completed a remarkable 60-hour chess marathon alongside US chess master Shawn Martinez.
“Tunde Onakoya aims to play chess games for 70 hours without losing.”
However, the Guinness World Records organization did not officially recognize their achievement, subsequently naming two individuals from Norway, Odin Blikra Vea and Askild Bryn, as the new record holders for playing 61 hours, 03 minutes, and 34 seconds.
Undeterred by the previous outcome, Tunde Onakoya is demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination as he takes on this new challenge.
His attempt not only aims to break a world record but also serves to further elevate the profile of Chess in Slums Africa and its mission to empower underprivileged children through the game of chess.
Also read: Tunde Onakoya sets 58-hour new chess marathon record, pushes for 60-hour
The high-profile location in Times Square is expected to draw significant attention to his inspiring endeavor.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
