Kelechi Ezihie is set to make history by attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the longest golf marathon, aiming to play continuously for 24 hours in late August.
Kelechi Ezihie’s journey began in Lagos, Nigeria, where he was born as the third of eight siblings. His early years were marked by separation from his parents, who moved to the United States when Kelechi was just a year old, leaving him and his siblings in the care of their grandmother and uncle.
Growing up without his parents was challenging, as Kelechi often saw his peers being picked up from school by their parents and longed for that same experience. Despite regular phone calls with his parents, the absence was keenly felt.
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After several visa rejections, Kelechi and his siblings were finally granted visas in 2008, allowing them to reunite with their parents in the United States. On December 6, 2008, which also happened to be his birthday, Kelechi stepped onto American soil for the first time as an 11-year-old. Kelechi and his siblings believed they were going on a two-week vacation to the United States. However, their uncle, aunt, and grandmother knew this trip was permanent. Kelechi recalled seeing his grandmother crying but couldn’t understand why. He kept telling her, “we will be back uma,” with “uma” translating to “Mummy” in Igbo. Kelechi wouldn’t see his grandmother again until he was around 21 years old.
Adapting to life in America came with its own set of challenges, including learning English and navigating a new cultural landscape. Kelechi attended a private Christian school, where he developed a strong faith and relationship with God. However, transitioning to a public high school exposed him to the harsh realities of racism and an identity crisis. Despite these challenges, Kelechi found solace and inspiration in an unexpected place – the golf course.
Kelechi’s first job at a country club introduced him to the game of golf. Initially viewing it as a sport for the wealthy, he soon discovered a deep passion for the game. The country club allowed employees to play on their days off, and Kelechi took full advantage of this opportunity. His competitive spirit drove him to improve his skills, and he often practiced for hours.
After moving to Indiana for work, Kelechi found a group of friends who shared his love for golf. They played almost every day, and his passion for the sport grew stronger with each game. Upon returning to New York, Kelechi noticed a lack of black golfers at events. This observation inspired him to create Golf Insights, a grassroots organization dedicated to educating and inspiring new golfers. Through this platform, Kelechi hosts corporate events and training sessions, providing a welcoming environment for beginners and those seeking to improve their skills.
Despite facing adversity, including racist remarks and stereotypes, he remains committed to showcasing the power of perseverance. His latest challenge – setting a Guinness World Record for the longest golf marathon – is a reflection of his dedication to pushing his limits and inspiring others.
Beyond the record attempt, Kelechi envisions a future where he continues to contribute to the golf community. He recently purchased land in Nigeria to start a golf center, hoping to inspire future PGA tour players. “Those who can do, and those who can’t teach,” says Kelechi, emphasizing his commitment to making golf more accessible and enjoyable for all.
As Kelechi prepares to break the Guinness World Record in late August, he reflects on his journey:
“This record attempt is not just about me; it’s about showing that with perseverance and passion, anyone can achieve their dreams. I hope to inspire others to break barriers and make their mark, just as I am striving to do.”
