Asian Mail
In an extraordinary display of endurance and dedication, 27-year-old Samson Ajao from Osogbo, Nigeria, has successfully completed the world’s longest marathon reading aloud, clocking an astonishing 215 hours – just one hour shy of nine consecutive days.
Breaking the Previous Record
Samson’s remarkable achievement surpasses the previous record of 124 hours set by Rysbai Isakov of Kyrgyzstan in 2022, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to promoting literacy development and inspiring a reading culture in Nigeria.
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A Marathon of Words
Throughout his record-breaking attempt, Samson read aloud from over 100 published works, covering a diverse range of subjects including finance, sales, management, leadership, politics, health, and mental wellness. His remarkable feat showcases his exceptional reading skills, vocal endurance, and mental stamina.
Overcoming Challenges
To accomplish this incredible feat, Samson had to overcome numerous challenges, including physical fatigue, mental exhaustion, and vocal strain. He took short breaks every hour, accumulating a total of two hours of rest time per day, during which he could eat, sleep, use the bathroom, or change clothes. However, in an interview, Samson revealed that he didn’t sleep at all during his breaks, saying, “Even when it’s tough, you have to get going to meet your target.”
Preparation and Perseverance
Before embarking on this record-breaking attempt, Samson consulted medical professionals to determine which foods and drinks would help preserve his voice and minimize toilet breaks. His meticulous preparation and unwavering perseverance paid off, enabling him to achieve this extraordinary feat.
A Celebration of Literacy
Samson’s remarkable achievement aims to promote literacy development and inspire a reading culture in Nigeria. Many people, including dignitaries such as Osun State House of Assembly Speaker Ngozi Adeleke and Education Commissioner Dipo Eluwole, came to listen to him read throughout his record attempt. After completing the “read-a-thon,” Samson and his supporters celebrated with a parade, joined by his proud parents.
A Record with a Rich History
This record has a fascinating history, dating back to 1987 when Adrian Hilton recited Shakespeare’s complete works in a “bard-a-thon” lasting 110 hours and 46 minutes. Samson’s record now stands as one of the longest marathon record attempts in Guinness World Records history, surpassed only by DJ Faber Moreira’s 10-day DJ-ing marathon.
(Courtesy Guinnessworldrecords)
