Tunde Onakoya, a renowned Nigerian chess master, is gearing up to make history by attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. His ambitious endeavor is fueled by a desire to advocate for the educational aspirations of countless African children facing limited access to learning opportunities.
Onakoya’s mission is clear: to engage in an uninterrupted 58-hour chess session, striving to emerge triumphant without experiencing a single defeat.
Scheduled to commence from 10 a.m. on April 17 to 8 p.m. on April 19, the event will take place in the iconic Times Square of New York City, setting the stage for an extraordinary display of skill and endurance.
Taking to social media to announce his monumental challenge, Onakoya shared his dedication, stating, “On the 17th of April 2024, I will attempt to break the Guinness World record for the longest chess marathon in the heart of Times Square, New York City, playing for 58 hours without conceding a game. This endeavor is dedicated to the dreams of millions of children across Africa who lack educational opportunities.”
However, Onakoya’s commitment extends far beyond the confines of the chessboard. As the founder of Chess in Slums Africa, he is deeply invested in empowering underprivileged children through mentorship and chess education.
Reflecting on his journey and the motivation driving his philanthropic efforts, Onakoya emphasized the importance of empathy and compassion. In an interview with Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, he shared insights into his personal experiences and how they shaped his mission.
“We knew the pain of hunger. We knew the pain of not having access, and that is the real tragedy of poverty. It’s not just not having money; you’re not having access; you’re completely removed from systems—you know, education, the rule of law, everything,” Onakoya articulated.
Drawing from his own challenges, Onakoya expressed a profound empathy for those facing similar adversities, driving his unwavering commitment to make a difference in their lives.
“A lot of that is deeply rooted in empathy and compassion, and that is why I think I have the capacity to do what I do and to do it so passionately without giving up even when it becomes hard. I know that I want to be who I needed to be when I was young to someone else. I think that is where it (the passion) really does stem from,” he concluded.
As Onakoya prepares to embark on his record-breaking chess marathon, his journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of determination, empathy, and the unwavering pursuit of a noble cause.
