Ghana is making headlines not just for its prowess in marathons but also for a different kind of endurance challenge.
Construction Project Manager and painter Sharon Dede Padi popularly known as Padiki, has set her sights on breaking the Guinness World Record (GWR) for the longest painting marathon.
Marathons have become a normal part of life in various African countries, with Ghana standing out as a hub of activity.
However, Padiki is stepping into uncharted territory with her ambitious attempt to break the record with a staggering 160 hours of continuous painting.
In an interview with Doreen Avio on Daybreak Hitz, Padiki shared the journey that led her to this remarkable endeavour.
She revealed that she initially attempted to apply for the marathon a year ago but was told she couldn’t use paintings she had already completed.
Undeterred, she revisited the idea in December after learning that the existing record was set at 100 hours.
Padiki disclosed, “It wasn’t until this December when we realised that someone had broken the record within a hundred hours, did I also tell my daughter to apply for me. It was just a joke.”
The marathon, according to Padiki, is not just about breaking records but aims to collaborate with various ministries to unearth hidden talents across the country.
She expressed her intention to work with the Ministry of Education, Tourism, Sports, and Gender to organise workshops and painting sessions in villages.
“I will be collaborating with the Ministry of Education, Tourism, Sports, and Gender. Through workshops and painting sessions, we will visit the villages, and you will be surprised by the number of artists there that we haven’t heard of,” she explained.
Highlighting the broader purpose behind her endeavour, Padiki emphasised the importance of providing platforms for talented individuals, especially in schools and institutions.
She appealed to Ghanaians to support her in this journey, asserting, “I need a lot of support from Ghanaians. They should not get tired now! Mine is yet to come, so please don’t get tired. My attempt is a means of teaching as well as a profession, and I need all the support I can get.”
As Padiki prepares for her marathon, the nation watches with anticipation, ready to rally behind her and witness a new chapter in Ghana’s growing reputation for extraordinary achievements.
