Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, has embarked on his second attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. Partnering with U.S. chess master Shawn Martinez, Onakoya commenced the ambitious 70-hour challenge on April 17, 2025, in the heart of Times Square, New York City. The event, slated to run through April 20, has garnered significant support from chess enthusiasts, fans, and onlookers alike.

The Gift of Chess, a New York-based non-profit organization dedicated to distributing chess sets globally, has been a key supporter of the event, leveraging its platform to promote the unifying power of chess. Photos and videos shared by the organization captured the official flag-off of the marathon.

This marks Onakoya's second attempt at the prestigious Guinness World Record. In April 2024, Onakoya and Martinez completed a 60-hour non-stop chess marathon, surpassing the previous record of 56 hours held by Norwegians Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad since 2018. However, their triumph was short-lived, as another pair of Norwegian players broke their record in June 2024, setting a new benchmark of 61 hours, 3 minutes, and 34 seconds.

Undeterred, Onakoya and Martinez have returned a year later, more determined than ever, with a target of 70 hours. Their goal is not only to reclaim the title but to establish a new benchmark in chess history. Onakoya has also revealed that five children from Chess Slum Africa will be joining him in New York, highlighting their potential to achieve great things despite their humble beginnings.

The Guinness World Record has officially recognized the ongoing challenge on its website. Fans and supporters have been sharing updates and messages of encouragement on social media, using the hashtag #chessmarathon.

In a video shared on X, Onakoya is seen surrounded by cheering fans as the countdown to the marathon began. The chess master aims to play chess games for 70 hours without losing. This attempt comes exactly one year after his first try. The GWR had previously remained silent on Onakoya’s initial feat and announced two men from Norway, Odin Blikra Vea and Askild Bryn, as the new record holders after they played for 61 hours, 03 minutes, and 34 seconds.