Renowned chess maestro, Tunde Onakoya, is making waves at New York City’s iconic Times Square as he embarks on a remarkable quest to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon.
After an impressive 16 hours of non-stop play, Onakoya remains undefeated, captivating chess enthusiasts worldwide.
Commencing on Wednesday, April 17, with scheduled completion on April 19, Onakoya has already achieved a stunning victory in each of his encounters. Notably, he triumphed over New York’s esteemed National Chess Master, Shawn Martinez, in a fiercely contested match that garnered attention from spectators.
Onakoya’s manager, known as Taiwo, shed light on the grueling nature of the challenge. Adhering to the rules, Onakoya took a collective break of 30 minutes after 15 hours of continuous play against 12 opponents. The regulations stipulate a five-minute break for every hour of intense gameplay. Additionally, Onakoya is simultaneously participating in two sets of games and must emerge victorious in both, a feat that demands unwavering focus and strategic prowess.
While the match against Shawn Martinez holds primary significance for the record attempt, Onakoya invites local chess enthusiasts to engage in friendly matches during his simultaneous play against random opponents in the second set. The event has garnered substantial attention and support from Nigerians abroad, who have rallied behind their chess prodigy.
The chess master’s remarkable journey has drawn recognition and encouragement from various Nigerian dignitaries, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party Atiku Abubakar, and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Notably, the US Mission Nigeria and UK in Nigeria have also extended their best wishes to Onakoya through their official channels.
As the chess marathon progresses, the world eagerly watches Tunde Onakoya’s quest to etch his name in the annals of chess history, showcasing the brilliance and resilience of Nigerian talent on the global stage.
