In a bid to make history and support a noble cause, Nigerian Chess Master Tunde Onakoya has embarked on a remarkable journey to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon without losing a game.
Currently underway in the bustling heart of Times Square, New York City, this endurance test is not only a test of strategic prowess but also a beacon of hope for underprivileged children in Nigeria and across Africa.
The Guinness World Records (GWR), known for its celebration of human achievement and extraordinary feats, has provided a platform for individuals and groups to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
With a staggering 65,940 active record titles and counting, the GWR stands as a testament to the limitless potential of human endeavor. In 2023 alone, it received a whopping 57,415 record applications from 215 countries, approving 4,975 records and hosting 1,194 brand activations worldwide.
Tunde Onakoya, a distinguished Chess Master and coach, founded Chess in Slums Africa in 2018 with a singular mission: to transform young lives through the power of chess. Believing fervently in the game’s capacity to uplift and educate, especially within marginalized communities, Onakoya has dedicated himself to bridging the gap between aspiration and opportunity.
Chess in Slums Africa operates as a non-profit organization, providing tuition-free education, learning resources, and mentorship programs to disadvantaged children. By nurturing their intellect and instilling resilience, the initiative aims to create a more inclusive future for African youth. The impact has been profound, with over 10,000 children’s lives touched and more than 500 securing fully-funded scholarships to local and international institutions.
Onakoya’s visionary work has garnered widespread acclaim, with media outlets such as BBC, Al-Jazeera, and Deutsche Welle highlighting the success stories emerging from slums in Lagos and beyond. His advocacy for social change has earned him prestigious accolades, including The Future Awards Africa Prize for Community Action and the Business Insider Award for Social Entrepreneur of the Year.
At the forefront of his tireless efforts is the ongoing chess marathon, a testament to both his strategic acumen and his commitment to philanthropy. As the clock ticks, Onakoya has already surpassed the 44-hour mark, edging closer to his target of 58 hours without conceding defeat.
Moreover, his fundraising endeavors have struck a chord with compassionate individuals worldwide, with donations totaling $46,606.00 towards the $1 million goal. These funds will directly benefit children living in slums, offering them access to education and a pathway to a brighter future.
As Tunde Onakoya continues his historic endeavor, he remains a symbol of resilience, compassion, and the boundless potential of the human spirit. Through chess and unwavering dedication, he is not only rewriting records but also rewriting destinies, one move at a time.
Nigerian Chess Master Tunde Onakoya is attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon without losing a game, currently taking place in Times Square, New York City. His effort not only tests his strategic skills but also aims to support disadvantaged children in Nigeria and Africa.
Guinness World Records has provided a platform for extraordinary achievements, with over 65,940 active record titles and numerous applications yearly. In 2023, 57,415 record applications were received, with 4,975 approved.
Onakoya founded Chess in Slums Africa in 2018, focusing on empowering youth in marginalized communities through chess. The non-profit provides free education and mentorship, significantly impacting over 10,000 children and securing more than 500 scholarships for higher education.
His work has been recognized by major media and has earned prestigious awards such as The Future Awards Africa Prize for Community Action and the Business Insider Award for Social Entrepreneur of the Year.
Currently, Onakoya has reached the 44-hour mark in his chess marathon, aiming for 58 hours without a loss. His fundraising efforts have garnered $46,606 towards a $1 million goal to support slum children. Through this endeavor, Onakoya exemplifies resilience, compassion, and the transformative power of chess in changing lives.
