Fez — An 86 year old French man has completed a 60 kilometer walk across the Moroccan Sahara, turning a family challenge into a powerful personal achievement.
Joseph Kervella, a resident of Plouguerneau in France’s Finistère region, traveled to southern Morocco in mid February to take part in the “Trans Sahara Marathon 2026.” This is an ultra trail spanning 150 kilometers over four stages between M’Hamid El Ghizlane and Zagora.
While the full race covers 150 kilometers, Kervella walked 60 kilometers through the dunes and rocky stretches of the Moroccan Sahara, accompanied by his family.
French newspaper Le Télégramme first reported the story.
A family challenge becomes reality
The idea took shape in October 2025 during a family meal. His granddaughter Pauline Bleunven, a 36 year old emergency physician and hiking enthusiast, handed him an envelope labeled “Cap’ ou pas cap’?” meaning “Dare or not?”
Inside was a message inviting him to prepare for an adventure in the Sahara from February 7 to 15.
Kervella had long dreamed of walking in the desert. Motivated by the proposal, his granddaughter registered them for the 2026 edition of the Trans Sahara Marathon.
He then trained for nearly three months, alternating between long walks and rowing machine sessions. A former sailor, he also prepared to sleep outdoors again, getting used to nights under the open sky in a sleeping bag.
Four family members in the desert
On the day of departure, Kervella believed he would share the experience with his granddaughter Pauline and his daughter Nelly. He later discovered that his other daughter, Céline, had also decided to join the journey.
From February 7 to 15, the four relatives crossed desert terrain as part of the organized ultra trail event.
Despite the demanding environment, Kervella said he was not affected by the heat. “I was not bothered by the heat,” he told Le Télégramme. “As the days went by, I felt better and better.”
His daughter Céline expressed admiration for her father’s determination. She said she had rarely seen him in such a form. She also added that he proves there is no age limit to achieving one’s dreams.
Medal and recognition
After crossing the finish line, Kervella received a medal and was awarded the title of the competition’s oldest participant.
Beyond the athletic performance, the journey highlights Morocco’s Sahara as an iconic destination that continues to attract adventurers seeking challenge and reflection.
