Tunde Onakoya Breaks Guinness World Record with Epic Chess Marathon for Children's Education

Published: March 13, 2025 at 2:11 PM
Last edited: 24 March,2025 at 11:19 AM

On April 20, 2024, Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya made history by shattering the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, playing continuously for over 60 hours in New York’s iconic Times Square. This extraordinary feat surpassed the previous record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds, set by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018.

Tunde Onakoya seated with onlookers cheering at times square. Image credit: NY Post

Despite facing intense physical challenges—including vomiting, stomach pain, and extreme tiredness—Onakoya persevered, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination

Tunde Onakoya seated whilst wrapped in a blanket at times square. Image credit: NY Post

.Tunde Onakoya standing whilst wrapped in a blanket at times square. Image credit: NY Post

A Mission to Educate Nigerian Children

Tunde’s marathon wasn’t just about breaking a record; it was a powerful statement with a purpose. His goal was to raise $1 million to support chess education for children in Nigeria, particularly those in underserved communities. As the founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Onakoya has dedicated his life to using chess as a tool to empower underprivileged children, drawing inspiration from his own beginnings learning the game in a slum in Ikorodu, Lagos. This record-breaking effort underscores his belief in the transformative power of education and opportunity.

Tunde Onakoya staring at a chess board - King's gambit

“It Is Possible to Do Great Things from a Small Place”

Reflecting on his journey, he shared a poignant message: “It is possible to do great things from a small place.” This philosophy encapsulates his mission to uplift children from humble beginnings, showing that even the smallest communities can produce monumental impact. His marathon, streamed live and covered by major media outlets like CNN, the New York Times, and the BBC, has inspired millions worldwide and highlighted the potential of chess as a vehicle for change.

It is possible to do great things from a small place- Tunde in Nigeria with some children from the slum

Behind the Scenes: A Video Created with Meta.ai

This inspiring story is brought to life in an exclusive video, I crafted using meta.ai. The images are generated as I typed. The video captures Onakoya’s determination, the vibrant atmosphere of Times Square, and the heart of his mission to educate and empower Nigerian children through chess. The song used is the trumpet version of the Script Hall of fame