Nigerian lady sets new Guinness World record with three-day crocheting marathon

A Nigerian lady, Chidinma Modupe Okafor has been certified by the Guinness World Records (GWR) as the new record holder for the longest crocheting marathon.

According to a report on the GWR website, Chidinma doubled the previous record with her new record by continuously crocheting a white dinner gown for an impressive 72 hours (three days).

She has now surpassed the previous record of 34 hours and 7 minutes held by Alessandra Hayden of the United States since 2021.

Chidinma has been a crocheter since childhood crocheting dresses and accessories for her friends and family members.

“I aim to showcase the artistry and perseverance involved in this craft and promote awareness about crocheting and its benefits,” she said.

She revealed that she went through a rigorous experience to successfully achieve the record. She crocheted continuously through her entire attempt.

Without much time wasting, Chidinma immediately had to move on to the next ball of yarn once she finished another.

Chidinma revealed that she underwent intense preparation for the record-breaking attempt, including thorough training and mental preparation, to build her endurance and focus for the challenging task.

Just as similar as all ‘longest marathon’ record attempts, Chidinma was allowed a total of two hours rest per day (five minutes per hour of crocheting). Only during these breaks could she eat, sleep, use the toilet or change her clothes.

“My preparation for the record attempt involved rigorous training and mental conditioning. It also required physical endurance and strategizing to maintain a consistent pace while minimizing fatigue,” she explained.

“Additionally, logistics such as arranging for sufficient yarn with support staff were crucial for the uninterrupted progress of the attempt.”

Her initial intention for the record attempt was to crochet a wedding gown, but she became fatigue at a point in time as time passed on and decided to turn it into a dinner gown suitable for various occasions.

“I couldn’t do extra hours,” she explained.

Chidinma’s world record will add up to a number of Nigerian record breakers including Hilda Baci’s famous cook-a-thon, including Helen Williams (longest wig and widest wig), Ewa Cole (longest marathon singing Christmas songs), Clara Chizoba Kronborg (longest interviewing marathon), and Tonye Solomon (most steps climbed on a ladder while balancing a football on the head).