Again, Tunde Onakoya breaks Chess World Record

On Sunday, April 21, Tunde Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, officially broke the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, clocking an impressive 62 hours, and he’s still going.

Teaming up with U.S. chess master Shawn Martinez, Onakoya achieved the feat in New York City’s Times Square, but the real story goes far beyond chess.

The previous record stood at 61 hours, set by Norwegian players. While Tunde had previously reached 60 hours in 2024, that record was short-lived. Now, he’s not only reclaimed the title but is pushing toward 70 hours, not for the spotlight, but for something far more meaningful.

“For all the dreamers! We’ve officially broken the record!” Tunde shared joyfully on X (formerly Twitter). In a more emotional post, he added, “Every move, every hour, a love letter to children who’ve never known the luxury of a second chance.”

His goal is to raise awareness and funds to build Nigeria’s largest free school for homeless children — a place where neglected dreams can come alive again. The record-breaking event began on Wednesday, April 17, and each hour played reflected his deep commitment to children living in poverty.

“If you had 70 hours to change the world, what would you do?” he asked — a powerful question directed not only at himself but at everyone who dares to dream.

This accomplishment is not just about setting a new record. For Tunde Onakoya, it’s about making the invisible visible, using intelligence and passion to fight poverty, and proving that you don’t need privilege to make a global impact. His mission stands as a reminder of the power of purpose.

Let’s support his cause, raise our voices, and turn this remarkable moment into a lasting movement — for the children, for the dreamers, and for the future.