Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya attempts to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. This ambitious endeavor, which began at 10 am on Wednesday, April 17, is set to captivate spectators until 8 pm on April 19, during which Onakoya will try to eclipse the current record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds set by Norwegians Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018.
The atmosphere at Times Square is electrified with excitement and national pride as Nigerians, both local and from abroad, gather in large numbers to support Onakoya. The chess master, known for his strategic prowess and resilience, announced the start of this grueling challenge through his X (formerly Twitter) account, stating, “Game time.” He also noted the overwhelming support from the Nigerian community: “We haven’t even started yet and Nigerians are already trooping into camp out with me.”
Among the crowd is Nigerian singer Adekunle Kosoko, better known by his stage name Adekunle Gold, who is also there to cheer on Onakoya. The support from such a high-profile figure highlights the significance of this event within the Nigerian community and underscores the broader cultural pride associated with Onakoya’s quest.
Onakoya’s challenge is not just about endurance but also about maintaining an unbeaten streak throughout the marathon. Playing for 58 hours straight, Onakoya aims to go beyond the limits of physical and mental stamina, requiring intense concentration and strategic thinking with each move on the chessboard.
This event holds particular significance as it reflects the resilience and determination of Onakoya, who has become an influential figure in chess, both in Nigeria and globally. His attempt to break the world record is not only a personal challenge but also a moment of national pride, showcasing the talent and perseverance of Nigerians on the world stage.
Times Square, with its bustling ambiance and iconic status, serves as the perfect backdrop for this monumental undertaking. The locale adds to the spectacle, drawing in tourists and New Yorkers alike, who are eager to witness a potential new record in the making. The event is also being livestreamed, allowing a global audience to tune in and watch Onakoya’s progress in real-time.
