President Bola Tinubu and other notable figures have thrown their support behind chess Grandmaster, Tunde Onakoya, as he strives to break the Guinness World Record for the longest unbeaten chess marathon, as per reports from NewsNow.
Commencing at 10am on Wednesday, April 17 in Times Square, New York, Onakoya has embarked on a 58-hour journey to surpass the current Guinness World record for the longest unbeaten chess marathon. According to Tiltify, his endeavor is projected to wrap up at 8pm on Friday (US time today).
The existing Guinness World record for the longest chess marathon stands at 56 hours, nine minutes, and 37 seconds, established by Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad of Norway on November 11, 2018.
At the time of reporting, Onakoya had already exceeded 30 hours, emerging victorious in numerous games.
Tinubu, in response to Onakoya’s Guinness World Record bid, succinctly expressed on X, “Checkmate the world Tunde Onakoya.”
Vice President Kashim Shettima remarked, “We are not only proud of the ambition of the chess maverick, Tunde Onakoya, in his attempt to break the Guinness World record for playing chess for 58 hours without losing a game, but also of his humanitarian interventions and his representation of Nigeria on the global stage through this game of brilliant minds.
“Mr. Onakoya symbolizes the excellence and resilience that distinguish Nigerians both locally and internationally, and we stand with him in spirit as he captivates the world from Times Square, New York City. Go, make history, and inscribe our name in gold.”
Former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, also praised the chess player, sharing a photo of himself engaged in a chess match with Onakoya.
“Wishing you the best of luck in Times Square as you strive to set the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. Your resilience and spirit inspire us all. Remember your own powerful words: ‘It is possible to do great things from a small place.’
“Allow the dynamic energy of Times Square to amplify the greatness that you, a proud Nigerian, bring to the chessboard. We are all behind you – demonstrate to the world the strength and determination you are made of! God bless you.”
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwoolu, also tweeted his support, encouraging Onakoya to achieve the new record.
“Good luck Tunde Onakoya. We are all rooting for you,” he expressed.
Similarly, in response to Onakoya’s Guinness World Record endeavor, the US Mission in Nigeria conveyed on its X handle, “Best wishes to @Tunde_OD on his knightly mission to break the world record for the longest chess marathon without losing a game!
“We’re thrilled to cheer him on as he makes history in the heart of Times Square and brings hope to children who dream of a brighter future through education.”
“Go Tunde!”