Tunde Onakoya during his attempt for a place in Guinness World Records
Eko Hot Blog reports that Tunde Onakoya, the founder of Chess in Slums, a nongovernmental organisation that supports the education of children in Nigeria through chess, has begun his attempt at a world record in Times Square, New York City, United States (US).
Onakoya is playing chess and is aiming to play for 58 consecutive hours to secure a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.
The current Guinness World Record, set by Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad of Norway on November 11, 2018, stands at 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds.
Onakoya started his attempt to break the current record at 4:30pm (Nigerian Time) on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, and is aiming to complete it in the early hours of Saturday.
A shot of the livestream of Tunde Onakoya’s chess game in New York
He is being challenged by NYC legend, US Chess Master Shawn Martinez, for 58 hours straight in the heart of Times Square. In addition to Martinez, he is taking on random challenges.
“He’s playing two sets simultaneously. The opponent on the first set is Shawn Martinez, a US National Chess Master and he will play with Tunde throughout the attempt,” a spokesperson for Onakoya said.
“Opponents in the second set are random players. He can’t lose any game on either sets.”
He is expected not to lose any game, but he is allowed to draw games.
“He doesn’t have to win all. But he can’t lose any. Draws are allowed,” his spokesperson added.
Earlier, the world record chaser urged people globally to join him as he attempts to use chess as a simple tool to expand opportunities & connect us across society.
“Join me, as I play chess for 58 consecutive hours in Times Square, NYC (April 17th (10 AM) – 19th (8:00 PM), breaking the Guinness Book of World Records,” he wrote.
“I ask you to play alongside of me, wherever you are globally – joining me in raising support. Join my team & set a fundraising goal for yourself.
“Our goal is to donate 1 million chess sets globally, using chess as a simple tool to expand opportunities & connect us across society.
“It is possible to do great things from a small place. -Tunde.”
Meanwhile, Onakoya has received countless of messages of support from fellow Nigerians rooting for his victory.
Tunde Onakoya during his attempt for a place in Guinness World Records
Prominent among them is former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo who wished the chess genius best of luck.
“Dear Tunde, Best of luck in Times Square as you attempt to set the Guinness World Record for the Longest Chess Marathon! Your resilience and spirit inspire us all. Remember your own powerful words: ‘It is possible to do great things from a small place’,” the immediate past Nigerian vice president wrote.
“Let the dynamic energy of Times Square amplify the greatness that you, a proud Nigerian, bring to the chessboard. We’re all behind you—show the world the strength and determination you are made of! God Bless You.”
Adekunle Gold on ground to support Tunde Onakoya’s aspiration for a place in the Guinness World Records
Superstar singer Adekunle Gold also showed his support by appearing at the scene of the game in person.
You can stream the chess match live here.
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