When the pandemic halted their wedding photography business, Canadian filmmakers Jay and Christina Golian sought a new project blending their passions for the outdoors and narrative storytelling. Their search led them to an extraordinary tale of personal resolve: the story of Nick Gardner, an octogenarian embarking on a monumental challenge to climb every Munro in Scotland.
A Personal Challenge Born from Loss
Heartbroken after his wife of five decades, Janet, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and osteoporosis and moved into full-time care, Nick Gardner faced a deep depression. In 2020, at the age of 80, he made a decisive choice to fight back. He set himself the goal of summiting all 282 of Scotland's peaks over 3,000 feet, giving himself a maximum of 1,200 days to complete the epic 2,000-mile journey.
Mr Gardner not only achieved his goal but smashed his own deadline, completing his final Munro in August 2022 with 400 days to spare. His arrival at the top of that last mountain was marked by a guard of honour formed by fellow walkers and supporters, celebrating the remarkable feat of the then 82-year-old.
Capturing the Journey: From Idea to Documentary
For Jay and Christina Golian, following Nick's adventure became their first feature-length documentary, titled 'The Oldest Munro Bagger'. The film, described as an uplifting story of resilience, hope, and love for the mountains, charts the highs and lows of the multi-year trek. It captures Gardner tackling some of the country's most demanding routes, including the formidable Greater Cuillin Traverse on the Isle of Skye, often cited as one of Europe's greatest mountaineering challenges.
The filmmaking process presented its own obstacles. Covid-19 restrictions necessitated social distancing during interviews and walks, and the pair had to contend with Scotland's notoriously harsh weather. Jay Golian recalled one extreme moment, noting, "At one point Nick's beard froze into icicles." He also admitted that keeping pace with the octogenarian was a challenge in itself: "He strides up those hills and, if anything, he got faster as the challenge continued, despite being bothered by an aching knee."
Legacy of Hope and a Guinness World Record
Beyond the personal achievement, Nick Gardner's mission had a profound philanthropic heart. His efforts raised an incredible more than £150,000 for Alzheimer Scotland and The Royal Osteoporosis Society, causes intimately connected to his wife's illnesses. In recognition of his extraordinary physical accomplishment at his age, he now officially holds the Guinness World Record for the 'oldest person to bag the Munros (male)'.
The Golians' documentary is set for its debut at the London Mountain Film Festival (LMFF) early next year. Christina Golian reflected on the profound impact of documenting Nick's journey, stating, "Nick's capacity for reflection and growth was incredible to witness. The perspective and wisdom he brings to life, and the inevitability of death, is life-changing to experience." A spokesman for the LMFF perfectly captured the film's spirit, saying, "Everyone needs a Nick in their life."
