Chess master Tunde Onakoya is embarking on a 70-hour Guinness World Record chess marathon in Times Square, aiming to raise awareness and funds for the education of homeless children.
What could be more impressive than achieving a Guinness World Record? How about pursuing a second one? Tunde Onakoya is preparing for another remarkable challenge, this time targeting the record for the longest continuous chess game, set at 70 hours. He will be joined in this endeavor by fellow chess coach and US National Master, Shawn Martinez.
In April 2024, Tunde made headlines by playing chess for 60 consecutive hours in Times Square, breaking the previous record while raising funds for educational initiatives for children in Africa. Initially, he aimed for a 58-hour marathon but extended it to 60 hours in hopes of raising $1 million for out-of-school children.
Since that achievement, two players from Norway have surpassed his record with a 61-hour game, prompting Tunde and Shawn to reclaim the title, with their attempt scheduled for April 17th to 20th.
Adding to the inspiration of this endeavor, Tunde will be accompanied each day by five children from Chess in Slums Africa, who, as he notes, “have demonstrated that remarkable achievements can emerge from humble beginnings.” These children will participate in the marathon for a few hours each day.
As with his previous record-setting attempt, the objective extends beyond the game itself. Tunde aspires to motivate individuals worldwide and garner support to establish the largest free school for homeless children in Nigeria. He has also invited all chess players in New York City to come and challenge them in Times Square.