MOROCCO
April 2025
Yamaha Ténéré 700 2021
The second trip to Morocco marked a clear evolution — not only in logistics, but in purpose and reach.
This time, Beltrão rode his Yamaha Ténéré 700, a more capable and comfortable machine, perfectly suited for longer solo rides and heavier loads. He joined the opening of the Cross Country 25 tour by ADV Riders Tours, once again hosted by his friend Rui Baltazar, who also lent him a crucial piece of gear: a 35-litre Sw-Motech Drybag that would carry 10 rackets, 30 balls, and his personal essentials. His setup also included two Kriega OS-18 bags — one for clothing and boots, the other filled with tennis t-shirts and sportswear to donate — and two OS-6 packs at the front for tools, chain oil, and spares.
Beltrão’s plan was never to complete the full 10-day tour. After a few days riding with the group, he parted ways in Agoudal, under threatening skies and orange-level weather alerts. Two days later, he had crossed the country to Plage Blanche, where the Carta Rally was about to begin. There, he connected with the Ténéré Spirit Experience team and formed a strong bond with a group of Romanian riders, including Lucian, who rode a Ténéré World Raid and would later accompany João on several circular desert routes — such as the full ride around Erg Chebbi.
Spending nearly 30 days in Morocco and covering over 6,500 kilometers, Beltrão was able to dive deeper — into the terrain, the culture, and the human connection that defines Beyond T7nnis. He crossed legendary pistes like M’Hamid El Ghizlane to Foum Zguid, navigated remote trails, and took his time — something only solo travel allows.
And throughout the journey, two moments stood out as defining the mission.
The first took place in Amellagou, a quiet village nestled in the mountains. There, Beltrão handed out rackets and balls to three young girls, aged 12 and 13. But more than just giving — he coached. He taught them how to hold the racket and how to swing. It was their first contact with the sport.
The second happened in Zagora, in front of the legendary Iriki Garage — a landmark on the overland trail, buzzing daily with travellers on motorcycles, 4x4 and trucks. Right there, in the middle of the street, Beltrão set up a spontaneous tennis game, using the Ténéré as a net. Children, teenagers, shopkeepers and even the garage mechanics joined in. For a moment, traffic stopped. And the noise of engines gave way to rallies and rallies of another kind.
