Tunde Onakoya, the Nigerian chess virtuoso, has etched his name in history by shattering the world record for the longest continuous chess marathon.
In an astonishing display of endurance and skill, Onakoya engaged in an uninterrupted chess battle for an astounding 58 hours, surpassing all previous records without a single defeat. This monumental feat unfolded amidst the bustling streets of New York City's iconic Times Square.
The previous record holder, Iranian chess maestro Pouya Idani, held the title with a formidable 57 hours and 18 minutes of gameplay. However, Onakoya's relentless pursuit of excellence propelled him beyond this milestone, cementing his status as a true champion of the game.
Remarkably, Onakoya's marathon wasn't merely a personal quest for glory. His noble aim was to raise a staggering $1 million to revolutionize the lives of disadvantaged children in Nigeria. Each move he made was not only a strategic maneuver on the chessboard but also a step towards a brighter future for countless young minds.
Throughout the grueling marathon, the 30-year-old grandmaster exhibited unwavering determination and resilience, captivating spectators and supporters alike. His unwavering commitment to the cause has garnered widespread admiration and support, propelling his mission to new heights.
Beyond his prowess on the chessboard, Onakoya is renowned for his philanthropic endeavors, particularly his crusade to introduce chess to underprivileged youth. His tireless advocacy for using chess as a catalyst for social change in Nigeria has earned him acclaim and accolades from around the globe.
Ranked 25,863rd in the world by the International Chess Federation, Onakoya's ascent to greatness serves as an inspiration to aspiring chess players and humanitarians alike. With each move he makes, both on and off the board, he continues to exemplify the power of passion, perseverance, and philanthropy.
In a triumphant declaration on his social media platform, Onakoya proclaimed, “WE HAVE DONE IT. We're pushing to 60 hours, guys. We're not stopping yet. Let's keep going. We have a fundraising goal to meet for the education of African children around the world. This is our why – the reason we are doing this.”