Tunde Onakoya’s Quest for Chess Marathon Glory in NYC

iexclusivenews – Amidst the vibrant glow of New York’s Times Square, Tunde Onakoya, a renowned Nigerian chess virtuoso, embarks on a monumental quest to shatter the world record for the longest continuous chess marathon.

With a goal to endure a staggering 58 hours over the chessboard, Onakoya’s endeavor is not just a test of stamina but also a noble crusade to amass $1 million for educational initiatives.

A Movement for Education Through Chess

The funds raised from this marathon are earmarked for a cause close to Onakoya’s heart: advancing chess education for countless children.

This initiative promises to unlock the intellectual potential of young minds through the strategic game of chess.

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A Community United by Chess and Culture

The event has garnered an outpouring of support, with hundreds assembling to witness this historic feat, including the celebrated Nigerian Afrobeats sensation, Davido.

The Nigerian diaspora in New York has thrown its full support behind Onakoya, bolstering his spirits with the rhythmic beats of home and the comforting flavors of traditional Nigerian cuisine, such as the cherished jollof rice.

Global Support Fuels Onakoya’s Record-Breaking Ambitions

Back in Nigeria, the excitement is palpable as supporters tune into Twitch to watch Onakoya’s progress.

Messages of encouragement have flooded in from prominent figures, including Nigeria’s Vice-President and the Governor of Lagos, who herald Onakoya’s attempt as a testament to the indomitable spirit that can spring from any corner of the globe.

On the Brink of History

As of the early hours on Friday, Onakoya had already surpassed the 39-hour mark and raised in excess of $42,000.

With determination in his eyes, he expressed confidence that the world record is within reach.

Aiming Beyond the Record

Onakoya’s journey is more than a personal challenge; it’s a beacon of hope and resilience.

Having risen from the challenging conditions of Lagos’s floating slums, he now stands as a pillar of inspiration, using his non-profit organization, Chess in Slums Africa, to empower impoverished children through chess and education.

A Legacy in the Making

At 29 years old, Onakoya is not only a chess enthusiast but also a key figure in The Gift of Chess, a U.S.-based non-profit striving to transform lives through the game.

With a vision to distribute one million chess sets to underprivileged communities by 2030, Onakoya is playing for much more than a record—he’s playing for a brighter future.