In a feat that underscores the vibrant culture and indomitable spirit of Trinidad and Tobago, 27-year-old Joshua Regrello has etched his name into the Guinness World Records with the longest steelpan-playing marathon. Regrello captivated audiences worldwide with a remarkable 31-hour performance, celebrating the country’s beloved national instrument and earning accolades for his determination and artistry.
The marathon, which commenced at 6:30 a.m. on Friday, reached the official 30-hour record mark by midday Saturday. However, Regrello, ever the showman and patriot, pressed on for an additional hour, performing live from the WACK 90.1FM studio in San Fernando. Thousands of supporters followed his journey via YouTube and Facebook, cheering him on as he set a new global standard for endurance and musical excellence.
“This victory belongs to everyone who supported me,” Regrello declared, addressing a gathering of friends, family, officials, and fans. “It’s not just about breaking a record; it’s about showcasing the unity, passion, and culture that define us as Trinidadians.”
A Team Effort Behind the Scenes
The attempt was no solo endeavor. Regrello’s milestone was supported by meticulous planning and contributions from various teams, including the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, Fire Service, and Football Federation, whose timekeepers worked in rotating shifts to ensure compliance with Guinness World Record protocols.
“I want to give special thanks to the witnesses who came on such short notice,” Regrello said, reflecting on their critical role in validating the attempt. “Their presence ensured that this achievement stands as an official, verified moment in history.”
A Test of Endurance and Passion
Regrello’s marathon was as much about physical stamina as it was about mental grit. Playing continuously for 31 hours, he adhered to the strict Guinness guidelines that permitted brief breaks but chose to power through with minimal rest. Often, he played one-handed to take a quick sip of water or a bite to eat, demonstrating not just resilience but an unyielding commitment to his craft.
A Cultural Showcase
The event was more than a record attempt—it was a celebration of Trinidad and Tobago’s rich musical heritage. Joined by singers and instrumentalists throughout the marathon, Regrello created an atmosphere of festivity and unity. His performance began with Josh Groban’s “You Raise Me Up” and culminated in an emotional rendition of Trinidad and Tobago’s national anthem, for which he invited the studio audience to stand in a moment of pride and solidarity.
From the Great Wall to Guinness Glory
This latest accomplishment follows another milestone in Regrello’s career—being the first to perform steelpan on the Great Wall of China. His achievements exemplify the global resonance of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural identity and the power of the steelpan to connect people across borders.
As the final notes of his 31-hour marathon rang out, Regrello’s record was more than an individual triumph—it was a celebration of the resilience, artistry, and community spirit that define Trinidad and Tobago.
