GWR- Hilda Baci awarded record for world’s longest cooking marathon

GWR- Hilda Baci awarded record for world’s longest cooking marathon

After a comprehensive examination of all the evidence, Guinness World Records is pleased to announce that Hilda Effiong Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci, has officially set a new record for the longest cooking marathon (individual), achieving an impressive time of 93 hours and 11 minutes.

The talented 26-year-old chef from Nigeria commenced her culinary endeavor on Thursday, May 11, and persevered until Monday, May 15, tirelessly preparing over 100 pots of delicious food during her four-day cooking extravaganza.

Hilda originally aimed to reach 100 hours, but due to a minor oversight where she inadvertently included extra minutes for one of her early rest breaks, nearly seven hours were deducted from her final total.

As per the regulations for all “longest marathon” records, participants are granted a five-minute rest break for every continuous hour of activity. These breaks can be accumulated if not utilized, serving as the only opportunities for Hilda to use the restroom or catch some sleep throughout the arduous undertaking.

The previous record of 87 hours and 45 minutes was established by Lata Tondon of India in 2019.

GWR- Hilda Baci awarded record for world’s longest cooking marathon

Hilda undertook this challenge with the intention of “putting Nigerian cuisine on the map” and “inspiring young African women to pursue their dreams.”

“I also decided to break this record to truly push my limits and test my abilities,” she added.

In preparation for the event, Hilda devised a comprehensive 35-item menu to guide her through each meal she would cook. She ensured the availability of all necessary ingredients for each recipe, with her team procuring additional food items as required throughout the cooking marathon.

Hilda’s record-breaking attempt captured the attention of social media, with millions of followers in Nigeria and beyond tracking her progress through a live stream on Instagram. The overwhelming support led to our website experiencing a two-day crash due to the enormous volume of traffic generated by her dedicated fan base.

Notable Nigerian figures, including Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, and award-winning singer Tiwa Savage, visited Hilda to show their support during her record attempt.

Throughout the cook-a-thon, Hilda adhered to several rules:

– At least two items must be prepared or cooked simultaneously.
– A sous-chef was allowed to assist with prep work, kitchen cleaning, and dishwashing, but Hilda was solely responsible for the cooking.
– An essential requirement for all food-related record attempts is that all items must be consumed. In line with this, Hilda extended an open invitation to the Nigerian public to savour her freshly prepared meals. Any surplus food was graciously donated to the Festus Fajemilo Foundation.

Hilda’s journey into the culinary world began after graduating from Madonna University, Nigeria, with a degree in sociology. She drew inspiration from her mother, Lynda Ndukwe, who is also a chef.

Hilda’s career has been marked by numerous achievements, including hosting the television show “Dine on a Budget” in 2020 and emerging victorious in the prestigious Jollof Face-off competition in 2021, where she triumphed over Ghana’s Leslie Kumordzie, proudly representing her native Nigeria.

Now, in 2023, she stands as an official Guinness World Records title holder. Congratulations, Hilda!