Kazakhstani Senior Sets Off on Global Adventure
74-Year-Old Kazakh Adventurer Continues Epic Journey of Friendship and Cultural Exchange
Sarsenbay Kotyrashov, a 74-year-old adventurer from Kazakhstan, has captured the hearts and imaginations of many with his remarkable journey across vast landscapes. Having already traversed Kazakhstan, Russia, Georgia, and Türkiye, Kotyrashov’s ambitious plans for the future continue to inspire and amaze.
Kotyrashov’s initial feat involved a staggering 8,000-kilometer journey across Kazakhstan in just 181 days, showcasing not only his physical endurance but also his unwavering commitment to exploring diverse cultures. His new journey, covering Russia, Georgia, and Türkiye, aimed at fostering friendship and cultural exchange. From Astrakhan to Istanbul, Kotyrashov covered a distance of 3,000 kilometers. In total, he aims to cover 16,000 kilometers to travel around the globe.
Now, Kotyrashov plans to explore Europe. In April of 2024, he intends to embark on a new phase of his journey that will commence in Istanbul. He will then walk through Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Austria, Germany, and France. From there, he plans to fly to the United States, where he aims to visit eight states. Afterward, in the spring of 2025, Kotyrashev will fly to China and traverse northern China, Mongolia, and Altai, concluding his journey in the East Kazakhstan Region.
Beyond the physical challenges, Kotyrashov’s journey is imbued with a higher purpose. He aspires to revive the long-forgotten celebration of kumys, a traditional Kazakh drink, compile a list of crafts persons from various regions of Kazakhstan, and submit it to UNESCO. His travels are not just about personal achievement; they serve as a global call for peace and friendship. Along the way, he takes every opportunity to share insights about Kazakhstan, its language, people, and rich cultural heritage.
However, such an ambitious journey comes with its share of challenges. Financial constraints, expensive accommodations, and the need for visas are among the obstacles that Kotyrashov faces. Despite these challenges, he remains resilient, engaging with ambassadors and foreign ministries to navigate bureaucratic requirements. Support from sponsors, including his workplace and public funds, has been instrumental in covering some of the expenses.
Kotyrashov has valuable advice for aspiring adventurers, emphasizing the importance of setting goals. He encourages walking at least seven kilometers daily, not just for physical well-being but also for shaping one’s worldview. According to him, dreams can only be realized when accompanied by a clear sense of purpose.
Sarsenbay Kotyrashov’s remarkable journey continues to inspire and unite people, transcending borders and cultures in the name of friendship and peace. His indomitable spirit of adventure serves as a powerful reminder of the boundless human potential for exploration and connection.
