Reactions As Nigerian Chess Master, Tunde Onakoya Begins 58-Hour Marathon In New York

Nigerian chess player, Tunde Onakoya has embarked on a quest to break the Guinness World Record for the longest continuous chess marathon.

Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) page on Wednesday, April 17, Tunde Onakoya announced the event’s commencement, captioning it “Game time.”

Under the initiative titled “About Play Chess With Tunde Onakoya,” he aims to support the dreams of millions of children globally through chess.

Onakoya’s challenge involves playing chess for 58 consecutive hours, starting from 10 a.m. on Wednesday, April 17, and concluding at 8 p.m. on April 19 at Times Square, New York City.

The marathon is currently in progress at the heart of Times Square, where Onakoya endeavors to maintain an unbroken streak for the entirety of the duration.

In addition to setting a new world record, Onakoya seeks to raise $1 million in support of global chess education initiatives for children.

The current record, standing at 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds, was achieved by Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad of Norway on November 11, 2018.

The initiative has garnered support from various quarters, with the United States Embassy, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and Tony Elumelu, Chairman of the United Bank of Africa (UBA), extending their well-wishes to Onakoya.

The US Mission Nigeria conveyed its support, stating, “Best wishes to @Tunde_OD on his knightly mission to break the world record for the longest chess marathon without losing a game.

“We are 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!.”

Yemi Osinbajo commended Onakoya’s endeavor, emphasizing his resilience and spirit, and encouraged him to leverage the vibrant energy of Times Square to showcase his prowess on the chessboard.

He wrote, “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.”

Tony Elumelu, echoing the sentiment of support, wished Onakoya success in his endeavor to set a new Guinness World Record, lauding his efforts to inspire African youth.

“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,” he wrote.

Game time 🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/N7VkEkD37g

— Tunde Onakoya (@Tunde_OD) April 17, 2024

Dear Tunde,

Best of luck in Times Square as you attempt 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… pic.twitter.com/ldB6GuZ1F2

— Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (@ProfOsinbajo) April 17, 2024

KanyiDaily had reported how a Nigerian boy defeated the acting Canadian high commissioner to Nigeria, Kevin Tokar, during a chess exhibition game in Lagos State.