Chess champion and founder of ‘Chess in Slums Africa’, Tunde Onakoya, finds himself engulfed in emotions as an unnamed good Samaritan graciously gifted a house to his parents.
The development is coming on the heels of Tunde’s breaking of the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon in New York.
Even though the official verdict on Tunde’s record-breaking endeavoir remains pending, the spirit he exhibited throughout the marathon has already won him admiration and acclaim from far and wide.
Overwhelmed by the gesture towards his parents, Onakoya took to his X handle to pour out his heartfelt gratitude on Friday.
Despite his father’s initial skepticism towards his passion for chess, Onakoya acknowledged his unwavering support in myriad other ways.
“My mother toiled as a janitor in the very institution where I pursued my education, ensuring I had the opportunity to learn. Meanwhile, my father navigated the chaotic streets as a Danfo driver and conductor, tirelessly striving to put food on our table.
“To afford them the life they truly deserve is the greatest joy life could ever bestow upon me.”
His post:
Someone gifted my parents a new house today. It’s the single greatest thing anyone will ever do for me in this lifetime. Thank you
My mother worked as a cleaner in the same school I attended so I could get an education while my dad worked as a Danfo driver/bus conductor so we…— Tunde Onakoya (@Tunde_OD) April 26, 2024
Onakoya set a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon after playing for 60 hours last Friday.
He had initially set himself a target of 58 hours before he decided to add two more hours in Times Square, New York, United States.
Onakoya experienced intense vomiting and stomachache during the challenge but refused to give up.