Rita Odafe
Nigerian Model Sets New Guinness World Record
Ololade Ayelabola, a University of Lagos student, has made headlines by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest catwalk distance.
She walked an astonishing 130.62 kilometers, completing a total of 2,058 laps at the university’s Indoor Sports Centre.
This accomplishment eclipsed the previous 41-year-old record of 114.4 kilometers, held by Roberta Brown and Lorraine McCourt in 1983. Originally aiming for 120 kilometers within 96 hours, she achieved her goal during the period from October 1st to 5th, 2024.
Aside from setting a record, Ayelabola’s mission was to confront stereotypes in the fashion world and advocate for diversity.
After facing rejection from fashion shows due to her height, she sought to create opportunities for models of every type.
Sharing her success on Instagram, Ayelabola expressed: “I DID IT EVERYONE! There were difficulties, but I stood through it. There were pains, but I refused to cower.”
