In a display of extraordinary endurance and dedication, Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, and his American counterpart, Shawn Martinez, etched their names in the annals of chess history by achieving a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. Their grueling 64-hour mental battle, held at the vibrant heart of Times Square in New York City, culminated in official recognition from Guinness World Records, solidifying their place as champions of chess stamina. The marathon, which commenced on April 17, 2025, and concluded on April 20th, captivated onlookers and drew attention to their inspiring cause: building a tuition-free school for homeless children in Nigeria. Onakoya’s announcement on social media, accompanied by pictures of himself and Martinez proudly displaying their certificate, resonated with a message of hope and possibility. “We did the impossible,” he proclaimed, “and gave the world something new to believe in.”
This monumental achievement marks Onakoya’s second foray into the world of record-breaking chess marathons. In April 2024, he and Martinez initially broke the existing record with a 60-hour marathon, surpassing the previous mark set by Norwegian players in 2018. However, their triumph was fleeting, as another Norwegian duo reclaimed the title just two months later with a time of 61 hours, 3 minutes, and 34 seconds. Undeterred, Onakoya and Martinez resolved to regain their position at the top. They aimed even higher, embarking on a 70-hour attempt in 2025. While they ultimately played for 64 hours, their perseverance and commitment secured them the coveted world record once more.
The Times Square setting provided a dramatic backdrop for the marathon, transforming the bustling urban landscape into a stage for this remarkable feat of human endurance. Throughout the 64 hours, Onakoya and Martinez navigated the complexities of countless chess games, their strategic thinking and mental fortitude pushed to the limits. The event transcended the realm of a simple competition, becoming a testament to the power of human resilience and the unwavering pursuit of a noble cause. The marathon was not merely about personal glory; it served as a powerful platform to raise awareness and garner support for Onakoya’s dream of providing education to homeless children.
Amidst the intensity of the competition, heartwarming moments unfolded, reminding everyone of the human element at the heart of this extraordinary endeavor. Martinez’s wife brought their newborn twins to the event, creating a touching scene of family support amid the demanding challenge. Furthermore, children were invited to participate, playing chess for a few hours and experiencing the magic of the game firsthand. These moments of connection underscored the broader impact of the marathon, extending beyond the chessboard to touch the lives of families and inspire young minds.
Onakoya’s vision of building a tuition-free school for homeless children in Nigeria served as the driving force behind this challenging undertaking. He articulated his dream with passionate conviction: “No child should ever have their childhood sacrificed for survival. No dream should be buried beneath the weight of poverty.” Through the chess marathon, he aimed to not only break a world record but also to shine a spotlight on the plight of homeless children and mobilize support for their education. The event transcended the world of competitive chess, becoming a symbol of hope and a testament to the transformative power of education.
The 64-hour chess marathon stands as a remarkable achievement, both in the realm of competitive chess and in its broader social impact. Onakoya and Martinez’s unwavering dedication, their resilience in the face of adversity, and their commitment to a cause greater than themselves have inspired many. Their story serves as a powerful reminder that even seemingly impossible feats are within reach with perseverance, dedication, and a belief in the power of human potential. The marathon’s success, amplified by social media and news coverage, has brought much-needed attention to the issue of homelessness and the importance of providing educational opportunities for all children, regardless of their circumstances. The legacy of this event will undoubtedly extend far beyond the chessboard, continuing to inspire positive change and reminding us of the remarkable things that can be accomplished when passion and purpose align.
