Tunde Onakoya Enters Guinness World Records with 64-Hour Chess Marathon, Says “It Is Possible to Do Great Things from a Small Place”
Nigerian chess sensation and Chess in Slums Africa founder, Tunde Onakoya, has officially been recognized by the Guinness World Records for achieving the longest chess marathon ever — a mind-blowing 64 hours of non-stop gameplay.
Onakoya accomplished the feat alongside American chess player Shawn Martinez, and shared the exciting news on Sunday through a series of posts on X.com, confirming that their record has now been formally certified by GWR.
The proud moment was captured in a photo of Onakoya and Martinez holding their certificates. Sharing the image, Onakoya wrote: “We did the impossible and gave the world something new to believe in. Official record holders of the Longest Chess Marathon for 64 hours. We did it. It’s time to go home.”
In a powerful message that echoes his journey from humble beginnings, he added: “It is possible to do great things from a small place.”
He also celebrated the collaboration with his American counterpart, writing: “Officially amazing! Congrats on our shared achievement Shawn Martinez!”
Onakoya, who rose to global prominence through his initiative Chess in Slums Africa, continues to use chess as a tool to inspire and transform the lives of children from disadvantaged communities. This latest milestone not only showcases his extraordinary endurance and skill but also amplifies his message of hope and empowerment.
With this historic achievement, Tunde Onakoya has proven that vision, purpose, and relentless passion can indeed move mountains — or in this case, rewrite the history books.
