2024 has emerged as a standout year for Guinness World Record achievements, with remarkable feats showcasing human creativity, endurance, and community spirit. From notable airline milestones to personal triumphs, the list of record-setters includes vibrant stories from individuals seeking not just to break records, but to raise awareness and promote social good.
Among the highlights, Turkish Airlines has etched its name not just as a leading airline but as the holder of the prestigious title of most countries flown to by any airline. At the ceremony held on December 20, 2024, at the Santiago Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport, Turkish Airlines celebrated this momentous recognition, tying their achievement to the launch of their new route to Chile. The airline’s CEO, Bilal Ekşi, expressed the pride of their accomplishment, stating, “We are delighted to be in Santiago, Chile, our newest route launched today, and to receive the Guinness World Records title for the Most Countries Flown to by an Airline.”
Turkish Airlines has held this title since 2012, but the official recognition from Guinness World Records adds another layer of significance to their efforts. The airline connects to 120 active countries based on the last twelve months' data, significantly surpassing its immediate competition by covering 131 countries overall when including all network routes. This extensive global network is constantly being enhanced, reinforcing the airline’s mission to connect diverse cultures and regions globally, as indicated by Ekşi’s words celebrating the impact of Turkish Airlines on connecting people and destinations.
On the individual front, 2024 has also witnessed extraordinary feats by accomplished individuals from various backgrounds. Abdul Hakim Awal made headlines with his record-breaking tree hug, achieving the longest duration of hugging a tree, totaling 24 hours, 21 minutes, and 4 seconds. Taking place from May 22 to 23, 2024, this challenge aimed to raise awareness about afforestation, highlighting the need for environmental conservation.
Another remarkable contributor to the tree-hugging theme was Abubakar Tahiru, who achieved the record for most trees hugged by one person within one hour, successfully embracing 1,123 trees on March 25, 2024, at Auburn University, Alabama. Such actions reflect the surge of eco-conscious efforts among today’s youth, proving the impact of personal actions on larger global issues.
Beauty and creativity took center stage when Akosua Mantey Roselyn set the world record for the longest marathon applying makeup, clocking 103 hours, 25 minutes, and 33 seconds on April 3, 2024. Mantey highlighted her endeavor's objective, stating she aimed to promote vocational skills, particularly as they relate to reducing early marriages.
Jephthah Osarfo Appiah also entered the record books, having completed the longest video game marathon focused on football, playing for 100 hours and 7 minutes from May 1 to 6, 2024, representing the ever-increasing popularity and cultural significance of gaming.
From the sports field, André Ayew matched the record number of appearances at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), achieving 36 appearances, level with Rigobert Song from Cameroon. Ayew’s career continues to inspire many aspiring athletes across the continent.
Ghanaian records shone bright with the exploits of Felicity and Chelsea-Abigail Owusu Ansah. Felicity set the record for the most cars washed by one individual, successfully cleaning 60 cars within eight hours on March 9, 2024. Chelsea achieved the Guinness World Record for the most heads of hair locked, performing her craft on 27 heads within eight hours on March 6, 2024, illustrating their dedication and skill.
Yoga records were not to be overlooked, as the Konatala family from Anakapalli, China, showcased their incredible abilities. Konatala Vijay, who previously set records for advanced yoga poses, saw his family members earn positions on the prestigious list as well, with notable achievements showcasing their expertise.
Augustus Holm, meanwhile, gathered members of the Youth Philanthropy Council (YPC) to clinch the record for the largest donation of shoes within 24 hours. The YPC’s dedication led to the distribution of over 21,600 pairs of shoes during their event dubbed St Nick’s Kicks on December 7, 2024. The young philanthropist Holm stated, “It was probably the hardest all of our members have physically worked in their lives” to reiterate the teamwork involved.
These accomplishments speak volumes about the determination and creativity present within various communities. The year 2024 is not merely about numbers; it is about fostering change, compassion, and pushing boundaries. Each record achieved reflects the potential for greatness inherent within individuals and organizations alike, as they strive to inspire and connect others through their unique endeavors.
