Since Truphena Muthoni’s 48-hour tree-hugging record was officially ratified in early 2026, a “record-breaking fever” has swept through Kenya. From long-distance walks to cooking marathons, everyone wants a piece of the glory.
However, in a recent sit-down on the Obinna Show, Truphena issued a stern warning: “You cannot just wake up and decide to do it.” If you haven’t talked to London (GWR Headquarters) first, your 72-hour effort might just be a very long, unrecorded hobby.
1. The Critical “Notification” Window
Truphena emphasizes that the process begins months before the actual challenge.
The Standard Application: This is free but can take up to 12 weeks for GWR to even review your proposal.
The Priority Route: If you’re in a hurry, you can pay for a priority application (approx. $800), which gets you a response in 5 working days.
The Rules: Once approved, GWR sends you a specific Guide to Evidence. Without this document, you won’t know the specific rules (like the 5-minute rest break per hour) for your category.
2. Evidence: If it’s not on Video, it didn’t Happen
One of the biggest mistakes aspiring record-breakers make is relying on social media “Live” streams as their only proof. Truphena explains that GWR requires a much higher standard:
18 Log Books: Truphena had to maintain meticulous manual records.
Rotating Witnesses: You need at least two independent witnesses per 4-hour shift. They cannot be your friends, family, or managers.
Continuous Video: A 24/7 uninterrupted feed with a synchronized clock must be submitted for forensic review.
3. The Physical vs. Administrative Challenge
Interestingly, Truphena told Obinna that the physical act of hugging the tree for 72 hours wasn’t the hardest part.
“I was not tired. I had practiced with 35-hour and 60-hour sessions. The real challenge was sleep and the administrative burden of ensuring every witness signed the book correctly at the right minute.”
4. Why Verification Takes So Long
As of late January 2026, Truphena’s 72-hour attempt is still under “review.” This is because GWR’s Records Management Team must watch nearly every hour of the footage and verify every signature in those 18 log books. This forensic evaluation can take 3 to 4 months.
5. Medical Safety First
With the rise of “Copycat” challenges, the Ministry of Health has also weighed in. PS Mary Muthoni recently warned that participants must undergo a medical check-up before attempting strenuous endurance feats. Truphena echoed this, noting that she spent five months training her body for the strain.
Step-by-Step: How to Start Your GWR Journey
Register an account on the official Guinness World Records website.
Apply for your specific record title (or suggest a new one).
Wait for your “Guidelines” and “Evidence Guide.”
Assemble your team: Timekeepers, independent witnesses, and a videographer.
Execute the challenge strictly following the rulebook.
Upload the evidence and wait for the “Officially Amazing” email.
