Chidinma Modupe Okafor has shattered the Guinness World Record for the longest crocheting marathon, clocking in at 72 hours.
During her three-day “crochet-a-thon,” the 30-year-old from Lagos crafted a white dinner gown, breaking the previous record of 34 hours and seven minutes set by Alessandra Hayden (USA) in 2021.
Okafor, who has been crocheting clothes and accessories since childhood, shared that her lifelong passion for the craft, along with a desire to challenge herself both mentally and physically, motivated her to pursue this record.
She told Guinness World Records, “I aim to showcase the artistry and perseverance involved in this craft and promote awareness about crocheting and its benefits.”
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Chidinma Modupe Okafor had to crochet nonstop to break the record, moving to the next ball of yarn immediately after finishing the previous one.
As with all “longest marathon” record attempts, Okafor was permitted only two hours of break each day—five minutes per hour of crocheting.
During these brief breaks, she could eat, sleep, use the restroom, or change clothes, but had to continue crocheting for the remaining time.
She recounted, “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.
“Additionally, logistics such as arranging for sufficient yarn with support staff were crucial for the uninterrupted progress of the attempt.”
Initially, Okafor planned to crochet a wedding gown, but as exhaustion set in, she opted for a dinner gown instead, explaining, “I couldn’t do extra hours.”
She was inspired by Hilda Baci, a fellow Nigerian who achieved the record for the longest cooking marathon the previous year.