Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya has set a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, playing non-stop for 64 hours in New York’s Times Square. The feat surpasses the previous record of 61 hours, held by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad since June 2024.
Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, achieved the milestone alongside his partner, US chess master Shawn Martinez. The marathon, which began on April 17, was initially aimed at 70 hours but was halted at 64 due to physical exhaustion.
In a post on social media, Onakoya shared the official Guinness World Records certificate, which read: “The longest chess marathon was achieved by Tunde Onakoya (Nigeria) and Shawn Martinez (Puerto Rico) in Times Square, New York, USA, from 17 to 20 April 2025.”
Accompanying the announcement, Onakoya wrote, “It is possible to do great things from a small place.”
More Than a Record—A Mission for Change
The chess prodigy, who previously completed a 60-hour marathon in 2024, emphasized that this attempt was not just for personal glory but to support underprivileged children.
“We’re not just doing this for ourselves—we’re doing it for a million dreams,” he said before the attempt. “We want to build the biggest preschool in Africa for homeless children. The hardest part isn’t staying awake for three days—because a million dreams will do that. But now, more than ever, we need everyone’s support.”
Onakoya’s initiative, Chess in Slums Africa, has already provided education and scholarships to over 200 children across Nigeria. Funds from his previous marathon helped distribute one million chess sets to impoverished communities in partnership with The Gift of Chess.
A Journey from Humble Beginnings
A self-taught chess player who learned the game in a barber’s shop, Onakoya grew up in Lagos under challenging circumstances. His mother worked as a cleaner to support his education, and he later studied computer science at Yaba College of Technology.
In a past interview, he reflected on his struggles: “Growing up in poverty taught me empathy because the real pain wasn’t just lacking money, but being cut off from things like education and justice.” This experience fuels his mission to create opportunities for disadvantaged youth.
Global and National Recognition
Onakoya’s achievements have drawn praise from Nigerian leaders and celebrities alike. During his 2024 marathon, music star Davido showed support, presenting him with a custom chain. Vice President Kashim Shettima commended his resilience, calling it a symbol of “excellence that distinguishes Nigerians globally.”
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also applauded the feat, stating, “This is a strong testimony to how greatness can come from anywhere.”
As Onakoya continues to push boundaries, his story remains an inspiration—proving that determination and vision can break records and transform lives.
