Samson Ajao, a 27-year-old from Osogbo, Osun state, Nigeria, has made history by setting a new world record for the longest marathon reading aloud, clocking an astonishing 215 hours – just one hour shy of nine full days.
This remarkable feat surpasses the previous record of 124 hours in 2022 by Kyrgyzstan’s Rysbai Isakov.
Ajao read from approximately 100 books covering subjects including finance, sales, management, leadership, politics, health, and mental wellness.
The stringent rules governing the marathon required Ajao to read continuously from published works, with no more than a 30-second pause between readings.
For every hour of reading, he was permitted a five-minute rest break, which he could accumulate and use for eating, sleeping, bathroom breaks, or changing clothes.
However, in an interview with NTA News, Ajao revealed that he did not sleep during breaks.
“Even when it’s tough, you have to get going to meet your target,” he said.
He said too prepare for the gruelling challenge, he sought advice from medical professionals on the best foods and drinks to preserve his voice and minimize the need for toilet breaks.
Throughout the attempt, Ajao garnered significant attention and support from the local community.
Prominent figures, including Osun State House of Assembly Speaker Ngozi Adeleke and Education Commissioner Dipo Eluwole, were among those who came to witness and support his record-breaking effort.
Following the completion of the marathon, Ajao and his supporters celebrated with a parade through the streets of Osogbo. His parents, who were among the revellers, expressed immense pride in their son’s extraordinary achievement.
Samson Ajao’s accomplishment is now etched in the annals of Guinness World Records as not only the longest marathon reading aloud but also one of the most extended marathon records in history.
