Nigerian Chess Champion Tunde Onakoya Begins 70-Hour Guinness Chess Marathon In Times Square

Tunde Onakoya, the celebrated Nigerian chess player and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, has officially launched his second attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon.

The event began on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the iconic Times Square in New York City, drawing a crowd of supporters and chess enthusiasts. Onakoya’s ambitious goal is to play continuous chess games for 70 hours without losing, pushing both mental endurance and strategic mastery to the limits.

“We’re not just playing for records. We’re playing to inspire hope from the slums to the world,” Onakoya said during a brief statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) page.

A Journey of Resilience and Redemption

This historic challenge comes precisely one year after his previous 60-hour chess marathon alongside US chess master Shawn Martinez in April 2024. Despite completing the full session, Onakoya’s feat was not officially recognized by Guinness World Records.

Instead, the title went to Norwegian duo Odin Blikra Vea and Askild Bryn, who were credited for a 61-hour, 3-minute, and 34-second chess marathon. Their achievement was confirmed in GWR’s official records.

Now, with renewed passion and international support, Tunde returns to the board determined to make history for himself and for Nigeria.

Support from the Crowd and Beyond

A video shared online showed Onakoya surrounded by enthusiastic fans, many waving Nigerian flags and cheering as the clock began its 70-hour countdown. The energy and inspiration at Times Square highlighted the global unity around the event, especially from the African diaspora.

This attempt is also expected to bring greater awareness to his non-profit initiative, Chess in Slums Africa, which uses the game of chess to empower children from underserved communities across Nigeria.

Related Read: How Chess in Slums Africa Is Changing Lives Through Strategy and Hope

What Makes This Attempt Unique?

Location: Times Square, New York – one of the world’s most iconic and busiest locations.
Objective: Break the Guinness World Record by playing chess for 70 hours non-stop.
Mission: Raise global attention for education and youth empowerment in slum communities.

Conclusion: All Eyes on Tunde

As the clock ticks forward, millions are tuning in to witness whether Tunde Onakoya can claim a place in history and bring pride to Nigeria. Regardless of the outcome, this bold endeavor is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the power of chess as a tool for social change.

Stay updated on Tunde’s record attempt and his advocacy through LMSINT MEDIA’s chess news section.