76-year-old walks 8,000km

Sarsenbay Kotyrashov, a 76-year-old Kazakh blacksmith, has embarked on an extraordinary mission to walk around the world. Having already covered 8,000 kilometres across Kazakhstan in six months, he has since traversed parts of Asia and Europe, and is now planning to cross the US.

Kotyrashov began his long-distance journeys in his 70s, defying conventional wisdom that age is a barrier to adventure. He started his European journey in Belgrade, having secured funding and obtained a Schengen visa, and went on to walk through five European countries in 2026.

His journey has taken him to numerous countries, including Russia, Türkiye, and Istanbul, where he has met people from diverse cultures and seen places he had never visited before. Along the way, he has adopted the nickname Ulytauman, a reference to his native Ulytau region.

One of the highlights of his journey was visiting the Great Wall of China, a testament to his determination and endurance. Kotyrashov's experience as a blacksmith has likely contributed to his physical strength and stamina, allowing him to undertake such a challenging journey.

## Why it matters Kotyrashov's story is an inspiration to people of all ages, demonstrating that it's never too late to pursue one's dreams and push beyond their comfort zones. His journey also highlights the importance of cultural exchange and understanding, as he has met people from different backgrounds and learned about their customs and ways of life.

As Kotyrashov prepares to cross the US, his journey is likely to continue inspiring people around the world. With his remarkable story, he is proving that age is just a number, and that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible.