Tunde Onakoya begins 70-hour chess marathon record

Abdullateef Fowewe

Nigerian chess master, Tunde Onakoya has begun his ambitious attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, aiming to play continuously for 70 hours in New York City’s Times Square from April 17 to 20, 2025.

He is partnering again with United States National Master Shawn Martinez for this challenge, seeking to surpass the current record of 61 hours set by Norwegian players.

Confirming the commencement on Thursday, Onakoya in an X (formally Twitter) post on Thursday, wrote, “It begins.”

This marks Onakoya’s second major record attempt after his historic 60-hour marathon in April 2024, which briefly held the record before being surpassed by the Norwegians.

The event is not only a test of endurance but also a fundraiser to support building the largest free school for homeless children in Nigeria.

Onakoya will be joined daily by children from his Chess in Slums Africa initiative, showcasing their talents during the marathon, Dailyeconomy gathered.

The event is open to the public, with Onakoya inviting chess players in New York City to challenge him and his team during the marathon.

This effort continues to draw significant attention and support from Nigerians worldwide and chess enthusiasts alike.

Dailyeconomy on Sunday, April 13, reported that Onakoya has set his sights on a groundbreaking feat, breaking the newly established 61-hour chess marathon record by two Norwegian players.

Announcing his ambitious plan, Onakoya on his official X (formally Twitter), declares, “On the 17th of April, we will attempt to break that record and set a new one for 70 hours”.