In a captivating display of endurance and dedication, Nigerian chess champion and child education advocate Tunde Onakoya, 29, has embarked on a monumental challenge in New York City’s Times Square. Onakoya’s mission? To play chess nonstop for an astonishing 58 hours, aiming to break the global record for the longest chess marathon while raising $1 million for children’s education initiatives across Africa.

The event has drawn significant attention as Onakoya faces off against American chess champion Shawn Martinez, following Guinness World Record guidelines that require two players to continuously play for the entire duration of the attempt. By 10:00 a.m. GMT on Friday, Onakoya had already logged an impressive 42 hours of continuous play, demonstrating his remarkable focus and determination.

Support for Onakoya’s endeavor has been pouring in both online and at the scene in Times Square, where a vibrant blend of African music is keeping onlookers and supporters engaged and entertained. Cheers and applause reverberate through the air as the players navigate the strategic complexities of chess in their quest for a new record.

The current chess marathon record stands at 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds, achieved in 2018 by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad. Onakoya’s record attempt is not merely about breaking records; it’s a profound statement of support for children’s education in Africa. As the founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Onakoya’s ultimate goal is to ensure the education of at least 1 million children living in slums across the continent.

“My energy is at 100% right now because my people are here supporting me with music,” Onakoya remarked Thursday evening, demonstrating his resilience and passion for the cause. The chess marathon serves as a symbol of hope and determination, resonating with the dreams of millions of children across Africa who aspire to access quality education and brighter futures.