Aiming for new heights, Celestine Onele, a proud indigene of Ebonyi State, has initiated a non-stop ironing marathon that spans 150 hours. Beginning this remarkable endeavor on Monday, April 22, 2024, he is determined to make his mark in the Guinness World Record books.
Originally from the Ezza South Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Onele is a passionate electrical engineer who is currently pursuing his Master’s degree at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State.
In a recent interview with journalists in Abakaliki, he revealed that he has received official approval from Guinness for the marathon ironing challenge, which requires strict adherence to specific rules to qualify for the record.
The community of Abakaliki has enthusiastically come together to support this initiative, providing their clothes for ironing at the designated venue, Real Exclusive Garden in the state capital.
Having harbored a love for ironing since childhood, Onele is intent on surpassing the achievements of past record holders like Garric Standard from the United Kingdom and Huston from Australia.
Reflecting on the journey ahead, Onele shared, “Before Garric Standard from the UK, the record was held by Huston from Australia, who achieved 80 hours in 2012, followed by Garric’s 100 hours in 2015. Since then, Guinness has granted approval for select individuals to attempt the record, provided they strictly adhere to all rules.”
Expressing his commitment to this remarkable feat, he added, “I am on the brink of challenging the Guinness World Record for the longest individual ironing marathon globally. If successful, I will secure my place as the new record holder. As an engineer, I am driven by the desire to explore new avenues and leave a lasting impact.”
Elaborating on the meticulous process leading up to this endeavor, Onele shared, “Following extensive research, I submitted my application to Guinness World last year on July 7. After a thorough evaluation process spanning 18 weeks, I was thrilled to receive approval to pursue the Guinness World Record.”
He continued, “Adhering to the prescribed guidelines is crucial. I have a strict 30-second window to select materials for ironing and only a 5-minute rest period after each hour of ironing. Any deviation from these rules can result in disqualification.”