Marathon runner who crosses Brazil on foot arrives in Teresina after passing through eight states
Marathon runner and journalist Lourival Xavier, known as 'Xavier Pé na Estrada', has reached Teresina as part of his project to walk across all 27 Brazilian states.
Lourival Xavier da Silva, a 56-year-old marathon runner and journalist, reached Teresina on the 6th of October after traversing eight Brazilian states since he began his journey on July 1, 2025. His project, named 'Desafio dos 27 Estados', aims to cover all states of Brazil on foot, with the goal of completing his journey by August 15, 2026. Xavier maintains an impressive pace, averaging 100 kilometers over a 20-hour period along federal highways, and he documents his journey on social media.
Xavier's inspiration for this ambitious project came from participating in various street races, where he thought of challenging himself further by walking through the entire country. He emphasizes the importance of planning and maintaining responsibility for his health throughout this endeavor. His journey has taken him through states including Alagoas, Sergipe, Pernambuco, Bahia, Paraíba, Rio Grande do Norte, and Ceará before arriving in Piauí.
As he continues his trek, Xavier expresses his excitement about the cultural discoveries and experiences he encounters across Brazil. The marathoner's dedication not only showcases his physical endurance but also promotes a sense of adventure and exploration of the diverse landscapes and communities found within the country. His journey represents a unique personal challenge while simultaneously highlighting the beauty of Brazil.