76-Year-Old Kazakh Blacksmith Sarsenbay Kotyrashov Embarks On Global Walking Expedition Across Continents

EuroNews•Published: Oct 14, 2026 06:30 PM IST

Sarsenbay Kotyrashov, a 76-year-old blacksmith from the Ulytau region of Kazakhstan, has gained international attention for his ongoing mission to walk across the globe. Since beginning his journey in 2022, he has traversed thousands of kilometers across Kazakhstan, Asia, and Europe, and is now preparing for a transcontinental trek across the United States in 2027.

Initial Kazakh Expedition: In 2022, Kotyrashov completed an 8,000-kilometer walk across his native Kazakhstan, starting in the Ulytau region and finishing in Aktau on the Caspian Sea.
International Journeys: Following his domestic success, he traveled through Russia, the Caucasus, Türkiye, and China, eventually reaching Beijing and the Great Wall, before completing a 3,000-kilometer trek through five European countries in 2026.
Future US Ambitions: Kotyrashov is currently preparing for a 2027 expedition to walk across eight US states from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast, aiming to cover over 40,000 kilometers to secure a Guinness World Record.

The Context & Background

Kotyrashov, who spent his life working as a blacksmith, only began his long-distance walking career in his 70s. He credits his physical endurance to his lifelong trade and maintains that his age is not a barrier to his goal of global exploration.

The big picture:Kotyrashov’s journey challenges conventional perceptions of aging and physical capability, serving as an inspiration for active longevity. His quest to set a Guinness World Record highlights the power of human determination and the potential for individuals to pursue ambitious life goals regardless of their age or background.

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