Controversy Surrounds Chef Smith’s Unrecognized Guinness World Record Attempt
Ghanaian chef Ebenezer Smith’s claim to the longest cooking marathon has been thrown into doubt by Guinness World Records (GWR). Smith embarked on a marathon cooking session starting February 1, 2024, at the Amadia Shopping Centre in Spintex, Accra, aiming for an astonishing 1,200 hours of continuous cooking.
Smith concluded his marathon on March 6, 2024, after 820 hours, announcing himself as the new record holder at a press briefing in Accra. However, GWR has refuted this claim, stating they were unaware of Smith’s attempt and that he had not submitted any evidence for assessment.
Madalyn Bielfeld, GWR’s PR Manager, clarified in an email to GraphicOnline, “No, we were not aware of his attempt. We have not received an application from him for this attempt.” The current recognized record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual stands at 119 hours, 57 minutes, and 16 seconds, achieved by Alan Fisher of Ireland in Matsue, Japan, in late 2023.
GWR did not comment on potential legal actions regarding Smith’s claim. The controversy highlights the rigorous process required to secure a Guinness World Record and the importance of proper documentation and verification in such attempts. Smith’s ambitious effort, though impressive, remains outside the official record books until validated by GWR’s standards.
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