Cookathon: 10 things Alan Fisher did differently from Hilda Baci

By Gbeminiyi

In the world of culinary feats and endurance, two remarkable individuals have made their mark in the Guinness World Records with their astonishing cooking marathons. 

Hilda Baci, a Nigerian cooking sensation, and Alan Fisher, an Irish chef based in Japan, have both etched their names into the history books

However, as we delve into their journeys, it becomes evident that they took different paths to achieve their remarkable feats. Here, we explore ten things that set Alan Fisher apart from Hilda Baci in their epic cookathons.

READ ALSO: Chef Alan Fisher: 10 things you didn’t know about new Guinness World Record holder

1. Duration of the cooking marathon

Hilda Baci embarked on her culinary journey with the goal of setting a new world record for the longest cooking marathon (individual). She cooked tirelessly for an astonishing 100 hours, striving to beat the previous record.

In contrast, Alan Fisher pushed the limits even further, surpassing Hilda’s record by a remarkable 24 hours. He logged an impressive 119 hours and 57 minutes, securing his place in history as the new record holder.

2. Media attention 

Alan Fisher’s approach to his record-breaking cooking marathon was notably discreet compared to Hilda Baci’s more publicized journey. 

While Hilda Baci’s cookathon took the world of social media by storm, attracting millions of followers who eagerly followed her progress via Instagram live stream, Alan Fisher’s attempt was relatively low-key in terms of online presence.

Fisher’s record-breaking journey may not have garnered the same level of online attention and publicity, despite securing two records. He focused on the task at hand rather than the public spectacle. 

3. Overcoming obstacles

Both Hilda and Alan faced their own set of challenges during their marathon cooking sessions. 

Hilda’s journey was not without hurdles, and she even had to deal with the Guinness World Records organization reducing her time by 7 hours for a slight rule infraction.

Alan’s challenges included back pain due to the manual dough mixing and extreme fatigue towards the end of his marathon. 

However, his determination allowed him to power through these obstacles and continue cooking.

4. Dual record achievement

Alan Fisher’s achievement goes beyond the longest cooking marathon. He also secured the title for the longest baking marathon (individual), with a time of 47 hours and 21 minutes. 

This showcases his culinary versatility and incredible endurance.Hilda Baci’s focus was primarily on the longest cooking marathon, and she did not attempt a secondary record during her cooking marathon.

READ ALSO: Breaking: Alan Fisher breaks Hilda Baci’s record for longest cooking hours

5. Charity 

Alan Fisher showcased his culinary versatility by preparing a diverse array of dishes throughout the event. His menu featured a delightful fusion of Japanese, Irish, and international cuisines. 

Additionally, his efforts weren’t solely about breaking records; he also used the cookathon as an opportunity to raise funds for multiple charitable causes.

6. Support and endurance

Alan Fisher attributed his success to the unwavering support of the people in his town, who stood by him throughout his record-breaking attempt. 

Their encouragement played a pivotal role in his journey.Hilda Baci’s record attempt also garnered immense support, particularly from her legion of loyal fans who followed her progress via an Instagram live stream. 

However, Alan’s experience highlights the importance of a strong local support system.

7. Baking expertise

Alan Fisher’s successful attempt at the longest baking marathon showcased his expertise in both cooking and baking. 

His ability to excel in multiple culinary disciplines adds another layer to his achievement.

Hilda Baci’s journey primarily emphasized cooking, and she did not venture into the world of baking during her marathon.

8. Violation of rule

Alan Fisher’s record was officially confirmed by the Guinness World Records organization on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, following a thorough review of the evidence, solidifying his status as the new record holder.

Hilda Baci’s record also went through an official confirmation process by GWR, with her time being slightly reduced due to a rule violation.

9. Unique experience

Alan Fisher shared a unique aspect of his journey, recounting a hallucination he had during the cooking marathon. 

He mentioned experiencing a moment where he turned to ask someone for assistance, only to realize no one was there. 

This illustrates the mental and physical toll of his record-breaking attempt.Hilda Baci’s journey did not include such vivid descriptions of hallucinations, but it’s a testament to the extraordinary mental challenges faced by both individuals.

10. Online presence and publicity

Hilda Baci’s cookathon took the world of social media by storm, attracting millions of followers from Nigeria and beyond who eagerly followed her progress via Instagram live stream.

Alan Fisher’s record-breaking journey, though equally remarkable, may not have garnered the same level of online attention and publicity, despite securing two records.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, both Hilda Baci and Alan Fisher achieved extraordinary feats in the world of cooking marathons, but their journeys were distinct in many ways.

Alan Fisher’s extended duration, dual record achievement, and unique experiences set him apart from Hilda Baci, underlining the diversity and remarkable nature of culinary accomplishments celebrated by the Guinness World Records.

Their stories serve as an inspiration to all aspiring chefs and culinary enthusiasts worldwide, showcasing the limitless potential of human endurance and determination in the world of cooking