Long Island Golfer Aims for Guinness World Record with 40-Hour Marathon
Kelechi Ezihie stepped onto the Huntington Crescent Club course at 6 p.m. on Sunday, not just to play golf but to challenge the limits of endurance. The 27-year-old from Inwood, who took up the sport only two years ago after caddying, is attempting to set a Guinness World Record by playing nonstop for an astonishing 40 hours.
As dawn broke on Monday, Ezihie learned that his initial goal of 24 hours would need to be extended. A British golfer had recently completed a staggering 32-hour round in Norway, prompting Ezihie to push his own limits even further.
“I feel great. This is for a good cause, so I feel great,” he stated, displaying remarkable energy nearly 19 hours into his marathon. His mission transcends personal achievement; he is raising funds and awareness for Life's WORC, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities, while advocating for greater diversity in golf.
Ezihie is permitted five-minute breaks each hour, yet he remains focused on walking and swinging throughout the challenge. Friends gathered around him, providing laughter and encouragement as they played under the glow of lights and used glow-in-the-dark golf balls.
“I really showed up thinking I would just play until 10, but the vibes are so good,” remarked Michaelangelo Garland, one of Ezihie's friends, highlighting the positive atmosphere surrounding the event.
Despite the fatigue that typically accompanies such an endeavor, Ezihie remained undeterred. “My friends are here to keep me going. I just think about enjoying myself, enjoy every single swing,” he said, embodying a spirit of resilience.
Weather conditions were no obstacle; Ezihie embraced the elements, stating, “A little shower doesn't spoil the dream and the goal.” His determination reflects a broader vision: to change perceptions about golf being an exclusive sport for the wealthy.
Guinness officials will meticulously review video evidence to ensure all criteria are met for record validation. “We have to make sure he's finishing the rounds in the right amount of time, that he is taking breaks in the allotted time that witnesses are logging,” explained Shartia Ducksworth from Golf Insights.
Ezihie's commitment extends beyond this record attempt. He has invested in land in Nigeria to establish a golf center aimed at nurturing local talent. “I believe Nigeria has a lot of talented kids that aren't able to show their talent,” he expressed, emphasizing his desire to create opportunities for aspiring golfers.
With a contagious laugh and an unwavering heart, Kelechi Ezihie is not only on a quest for a place in the record books but also striving to redefine the landscape of golf for future generations.
