Congratulations on our shared achievement, Onakoya hails US partner on record-breaking chess marathon

Tunde Onakoya, a Nigerian chess master, congratulated his American rival, Shawn Martinez, after they completed their 60-hour game, breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon.

According to TalkTalk Nigeria  Online, a statement from Onakoya's nonprofit, Chess in Slums Africa, stated that the two National Masters in chess played against each other throughout the challenge and will both hold the record title.

Onakoya praised Martinez's contribution to their achievement in a Saturday post on his X handle.

He wrote, "Dear Shawn, there is no world record without you."

"For 60 hours, we demonstrated to the world the value of true collaboration over rivalry.
"We supported each other during difficult times, both mentally and physically. And you did it with such grace.

Onakoya thanked Martinez further, addressing him as "brother" and congratulating him on their joint achievement.

He continued, "This is a public acknowledgement and thanks to you, my brother. "Congratulations on our collaborative achievement."

In 2018, Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad set a record by playing for 56 hours, 09 minutes, and 37 seconds.

Onakoya stated that his goal was to generate finances and awareness for offering educational chances to poor youngsters in Africa.