Nigerian Chef Hilda Bassey Effiong Breaks Guinness World Cooking Record
In a remarkable feat of culinary endurance, young Nigerian chef Hilda Bassey Effiong, hailing from Akwa Ibom State, has successfully broken the Guinness World Record for the longest continuous cooking session. Through her renowned food brand, “My Food by Hilda,” located in Lagos, Hilda embarked on an extraordinary challenge to cook non-stop for an astounding 96 hours. Let’s delve into the details of Hilda’s exceptional achievement and the determination that led her to make history.
The Cooking Marathon:
Taking place at Amore Gardens in Lekki, Lagos State, Nigeria, Hilda’s cooking marathon captivated audiences as she tirelessly cooked round the clock for four consecutive days. With unwavering determination and an indomitable spirit, Hilda cooked through morning, afternoon, evening, and night, aiming to complete the challenging endeavor by Monday, May 15th, 2023, in the evening.
Hilda aptly named her cooking project the “Cook-a-thon,” a term derived from the word “marathon.”
Guidelines and Challenges:
To maintain the integrity of the record-breaking feat, Hilda adhered to strict guidelines throughout her marathon. One of the rules dictated that she must remain standing while cooking, adding to the physical strain she endured. Moreover, Hilda willingly abstained from consuming coffee, stimulants, or energy drinks that could artificially boost her energy or bodily strength. However, she was allowed to consume food, water, fruit juice, and glucose to sustain herself during the grueling hours.
Rest and Breaks:
Endurance was paramount during Hilda’s extraordinary journey. As she dedicated herself to the cooking marathon, she was granted brief respites of just 5 minutes for every hour she cooked. This meant that within every 12-hour period, she had only an hour-long break. In addition, a 30-minute break was scheduled every 6 hours, during which Hilda could avail herself of the nearby medical van for rest, restroom use, and receive medical assessments from the available medical team.
The Menu and Record-Breaking Ambition:
Hilda showcased her culinary prowess during the marathon by cooking a wide variety of meals simultaneously. With the freedom to cook any dish she desired, she amazed spectators with her versatility and creativity. It is important to note that the focus of the record was the duration of continuous cooking, rather than the specific dishes prepared. Every meal cooked and served by Hilda was meticulously recorded. By the conclusion of the marathon, Hilda had prepared over 115 meals, serving nearly 3,000 portions, if not more.
Inspiration and the Previous Record Holder:
Hilda drew inspiration from Indian chef Lata Tandon, who achieved a Guinness World Record in 2019 by cooking non-stop for 87 hours and 45 minutes. Eager to surpass this remarkable feat, Hilda dedicated herself to cook for an astonishing 96 hours, surpassing the previous record and becoming the first person on Earth to spend such an extended period cooking in a marathon-like event.
Support and Sponsorship:
Hilda’s arduous undertaking was made possible through the generous support of her sponsors, who provided the majority of the required food items, ingredients, utensils, and other resources. The financial burden of the event was not solely shouldered by Hilda or her food brand. Additionally, Hilda was surrounded by a dedicated support system, comprising individuals who remained by her side throughout the marathon, offering constant encouragement and motivation to bolster her spirits.
Community Involvement and Generosity:
Hilda’s monumental cooking marathon wasn’t just about breaking records; it was also a remarkable act of generosity. As part of her project, she ensured that whatever she cooked was shared with the people present at the venue, completely free of charge. Her selflessness and dedication to feeding others exemplify the true spirit of community and compassion.
Celebrating the Achievement:
As Hilda’s marathon progressed, the excitement and anticipation grew among spectators and supporters. Although the physical toll on Hilda was evident, the people around her rallied together, cheering her on, and providing the necessary motivation to keep her going. Their unwavering presence and encouragement created an atmosphere of celebration and admiration for her extraordinary achievement.
Legacy and Future Endeavors:
Hilda’s record-breaking cooking marathon will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy. Her remarkable feat serves as an inspiration to aspiring chefs and individuals who aim to push the boundaries of their abilities. Hilda’s determination, perseverance, and passion for cooking have paved the way for future culinary endeavors and opened new possibilities within the culinary world.
Conclusion:
Nigerian chef Hilda Bassey Effiong’s successful completion of a 96-hour cooking marathon has etched her name in the annals of culinary history. Her unwavering commitment to breaking the Guinness World Record, combined with her culinary expertise, endurance, and community-minded approach, sets her apart as a true trailblazer in the world of cooking. Hilda’s extraordinary achievement will continue to inspire and captivate the culinary community for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the world of food and human achievement.
