Tag: Chess

Tunde Onakoya breaks Guinness World Record For Longest Chess Marathon

Posted on by Adekugbe Adedayo

Nigerian Chess Master Tunde Onakoya has officially set the mark for a new chess marathon of 58 hours around 2:30 WAT on Saturday, April 20, 2024.

On Thursday, the champion went on a mission to break the world record for the longest chess marathon. Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad were the previous owners, holding it for 56 hours and 9 minutes.

According to The Gift of Chess on X, who posted at 12:34 am on Saturday, “56 Hours Straight, The Record Is SET TO BREAK.”

Tunde confirmed the new record via his X account:

“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.

“Let’s demonstrate to the world the incredible power of love. Together, we can make this happen.

The challenge was held at the New York City Times Square to raise funds and awareness for providing educational opportunities to underprivileged children across Africa. He is the convener of Chess in the Slums, an NGO to equip children with the power of chess.

Tunde Onakoya was joined by the US National Chess Champion 23 hours into the game.

“This record attempt requires a team of two players. Tunde Onakoya (NG) will be facing off against Shawn Martinez (US) for the challenge. Both players hold the title of National Masters.

“Shawn Martinez, a US National Master, renowned New York City chess legend, and chess coach, poses as a formidable adversary. Both Tunde Onakoya and Shawn Martinez will hold the record title.”

“This record is for the longest time to continuously play chess. This record is to be mentioned in hours, minutes, and seconds. This record is to be attempted by a team of two players,” said Chess in the Slums.

Notable figures like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Singer Davido, and Adekunle Gold have all supported Tunde.

I will play on for the dreams of millions of children
- Tunde Onakoya

An Insight into Tunde Onakoya, the Nigerian Chess Master

Posted on by Stephen Ibrahim

Tunde Onakoya is a name well known for his mastery in the realm of chess, not just in Nigeria but also on the international stage. Founder of Chess in Slums Africa. He has organized a number of interventions programs for children across slums across Lagos in places like, Ikorodu, Makoko and recently, Oshodi.

Early Life and Passion

Tunde Onakoya was born on 6th October, 1994 aged 29, in Ikorodu , Lagos Nigeria. He has a diploma in computer science from Yaba College of Technology where he was a gold medalist who represented the school in Nigeria Polytechnic Games and also at the RCCG Chess Championship.He is also a board member of the New York City-based non-profit The Gift of Chess.

With a passion for the game that ignited in his early years, Onakoya’s journey to becoming a chess master is one marked by dedication, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.

Though from a humble beginning, hence his popular saying “It is possible to do great things from a small place” Tunde Onakoya discovered his love for chess at a tender age. Encouraged by supportive family members and mentors, Onakoya honed his skills through hours of practice and study, laying the foundation for his future success.

Rise to Prominence in Nigerian Chess

As Onakoya’s proficiency in chess grew, so did his reputation within the Nigerian chess community. His strategic brilliance and unwavering determination propelled him to the forefront of national competitions, where he consistently demonstrated his prowess against formidable opponents. With each victory, Onakoya solidified his status as a rising star in Nigerian chess circles, inspiring admiration and respect among his peers.

Onakoya’s journey to mastery reached new heights as he began to compete on the international stage. Representing Nigeria with pride and distinction, he showcased his exceptional talent in various prestigious tournaments across the globe.

Beyond his individual achievements, Onakoya has made significant contributions to the growth and development of chess in Nigeria. Through coaching, mentoring, and grassroots initiatives, he seeks to inspire the next generation of chess enthusiasts and nurture talent within the country.

Guinness World Record

Tunde Onakoya is currently trying to break the Guinness world record for the longest chess marathon. He is playing his games in the open air in Manhattan. This is a great achievement for him as well as his country Nigeria. With much support from supporters in and outside the country, Tunde Onakoya is still riding strong in his attempt to break this record.

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