In a remarkable display of endurance and skill, Nigerian chess sensation Tunde Onakoya has broken the world record for the longest continuous chess marathon, completing an astonishing 70-hour session in Times Square, New York City.
Onakoya, in partnership with his chess companion Shawn Martinez, surpassed the previous record set by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, who had completed a 61-hour marathon in June 2024.
The 70-hour chess marathon, which began on April 17, 2025, was not just a bid for a Guinness World Record but also an opportunity to raise awareness for a cause close to Onakoya’s heart, Chess in Slums Africa.
The initiative, which seeks to provide underprivileged children in Nigeria with the tools and education to excel through chess, was at the core of Onakoya’s monumental effort.
“I’ve always believed in the power of chess to transform lives, especially for young people in underprivileged communities,” Onakoya shared.
“This marathon isn’t just about breaking a record, it’s about making a statement that no matter where you come from, you can achieve greatness.”
Despite the physical and mental toll, Onakoya and Martinez pushed through, relying on sheer determination to complete the 70 hours of nonstop chess. The players took short breaks for meals and rest, but the intensity of the game was unrelenting. Onakoya’s victory was not just a personal achievement but a triumph for the global chess community and a powerful endorsement of his initiative.
“The marathon was challenging, but the cause behind it kept us going,” Onakoya remarked during an interview following the event.
“I want to show the world that with enough support, anyone, whether from the streets of Lagos or the halls of elite chess clubs, can dream big and make their dreams come true.”
Throughout the marathon, spectators gathered around Times Square, where a large digital screen displayed the ongoing game. The event garnered widespread media attention, with many recognising Onakoya’s commitment to using chess as a vehicle for positive change in Africa.
“We’re not just playing for a record here. We’re playing for the future of children who need role models, who need access to education, and who need to believe in their own potential,” Onakoya continued. “This record is just a stepping stone to something bigger.”
Onakoya’s record-breaking marathon has been praised as a victory not only for him but for the entire African chess community. His efforts to raise the profile of African talent in international chess have been a driving force for the Chess in Slums Africa program, which continues to flourish under his leadership.
As the Guinness World Records team begins the process of verifying the achievement, Onakoya’s legacy is already solidifying. His dedication to improving the lives of disadvantaged youth through chess has left a lasting imprint on the sport and its followers worldwide.
“Every move I make on that board is for the children who dream of a better future.”
“This marathon is their victory as much as it is mine,” Onakoya said, reflecting on his long journey.
