Renowned chess player Tunde Onakoya has embarked on a mission to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. Onakoya announced the event’s start via his X (formerly Twitter) account, captioning it “Game time.”

The marathon is currently underway at New York City’s iconic Times Square. It began at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, April 17, and is scheduled to conclude at 8 p.m. on April 19. Onakoya aims to play continuously for 58 hours without suffering a defeat.

He seeks to raise $1 million to support global chess education for children.

Tony O. Elumelu, formerly on X (formerly Twitter), expressed his support for Onakoya, saying, “Good luck on checkmating New York, @Tunde_OD, as you attempt to set the Guinness World Record for the longest Chess Marathon. Continue to inspire African youth—we stand firmly behind you.”

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo applauded the chess master, stating, “Dear Tunde, best of luck in Times Square as you strive to set the Guinness World Record for the Longest Chess Marathon! Your resilience and spirit inspire us all. Remember your own powerful words: ‘It is possible to do great things from a small place.’ Let the dynamic energy of Times Square amplify the greatness you, a proud Nigerian, bring to the chessboard. We’re all behind you—show the world the strength and determination you are made of! God bless you, @Tunde_OD.”

The current Guinness World Record, held by Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad of Norway on November 11, 2018, stands at 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds.

Every grand victory starts with a single, bold move akin to a daring gambit—a bold move to redefine possibilities.

@Tunde_OD ; Lagos is rooting for you as you attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon at Times Square in the heart of New York.

Taking the story of the phenomenal work you started in Lagos with young children to a global stage is a powerful testament to how greatness can emerge from anywhere.

We are not only proud of the ambition of the chess maverick, Tunde Onakoya (@Tunde_OD), in his attempt to break the Guinness World Record for playing chess for 58 hours without losing a game, but also of his humanitarian interventions and his representation of Nigeria on the global stage through this game of brilliant minds.

Mr. Onakoya is a symbol of excellence and resilience that distinguish Nigerians both at home and abroad, and we stand with him in spirit as he captivates the world from Times Square, New York City. Go, make history, and inscribe our name in gold.

Best wishes to @Tunde_OD on his knightly mission to break the world record for the longest chess marathon without losing a game! We’re thrilled to cheer him on as he makes history in the heart of Times Square and brings hope to children who dream of a brighter future through education.

Go Tunde!

#ChessMarathonforChange

cenaman:
He won't make it.

cenaman:
He won't make it.

cenaman:
He won't make it.