Last Thursday marked the culmination of Afua Asantewaa Aduonum’s impressive singing marathon, spanning 126 hours and 52 minutes, which she initiated on December 24, 2023. Her ambitious goal was to surpass the 11-year-old Guinness World Record set by Indian singer Sunil Waghmare.
In the wake of her remarkable feat, the anticipation among Ghanaians is palpable, with many eagerly awaiting a verdict from Guinness World Records to either disqualify or declare her the new Sing-A-Thon world champion.
Regrettably, the suspense is bound to linger for at least 13 weeks unless Afua Aduonum opts to expedite the process by paying Ghc 7,792 for the Priority Evidence Review service offered by Guinness World Records.
According to the organization’s website, applicants can purchase this service to fast-track the review process, with a commitment to concluding the assessment within five working days instead of the standard 12 weeks. The cost for this expedited service for existing titles is £350, $650, or €440, equivalent to GHC 7,792 (plus applicable VAT).
“It’s worth it if you can’t wait 12 weeks to find out if you are Officially Amazing,” Guinness World Records emphasized.
Initially perceived by many as a jest when Aduonum announced her endeavor to break the individual Guinness World Record for the longest singing marathon, public interest skyrocketed as the attempt gained momentum through traditional and social media.
Aduonum’s singing marathon aimed to surpass Waghmare’s 2012 record of 105 hours. Despite initially planning to continue until noon on December 29, she heeded her medical support team’s advice and concluded the attempt around 7:00 am due to concerns about her body’s endurance.
While Aduonum’s supporters remain optimistic about her breaking the record, the final decision rests with the Guinness World Records review team after she submits her attempt. The organization has stringent submission requirements, and any deviation from the step-by-step process could lead to rejection.
Guinness World Records standard reviews typically take 12 weeks, but the Priority Review, chosen at a cost, can provide a verdict within five working days.
In a recent interview on UTV, Aduonum disclosed that her team is in the process of compiling the evidence for submission. Once the attempt is submitted, it will take an additional 12 weeks for Guinness World Records to announce their decision. The waiting game continues.