When the pandemic brought their wedding photography business to a halt, Canadian filmmakers Jay and Christina Golian sought a new project that married their passion for the outdoors with narrative storytelling. They found an extraordinary subject in octogenarian Nick Gardner, whose personal mission would become their first feature-length film, The Oldest Munro Bagger.
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. Determined to fight it, in 2020, at the age of 80, he set himself a monumental task: to climb every one of Scotland's 282 Munros – peaks over 3,000 feet – within a self-imposed limit of 1,200 days.
Mr Gardner's epic journey covered more than 2,000 miles of some of the UK's most rugged terrain. He tackled legendary routes like the formidable Greater Cuillin Traverse on the Isle of Skye, often cited as one of Europe's toughest mountain challenges. Against the odds, he completed his final summit in August 2022, with an impressive 400 days to spare.
Capturing the Journey on Film
For the Golians, documenting this feat was both an inspiration and a trial. They navigated strict Covid-19 restrictions, requiring social distancing during interviews and hikes, and battled the notoriously unforgiving Scottish weather. "At one point Nick's beard froze into icicles," recalled Jay Golian.
Keeping pace with the sprightly octogenarian was another challenge. "He strides up those hills and, if anything, he got faster as the challenge continued, despite being bothered by an aching knee," Jay admitted. Christina Golian highlighted the profound personal growth they witnessed, 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 Legacy of Hope and Records
Nick Gardner's incredible physical endeavour served a greater purpose, raising over £150,000 for Alzheimer Scotland and The Royal Osteoporosis Society. His achievement has also been officially recognised with the Guinness World Record for the 'oldest person to bag the Munros (male)'.
This story of resilience, hope, and love for the mountains will now reach a wider audience. The Oldest Munro Bagger is scheduled for its debut at the London Mountain Film Festival (LMFF) in early 2025. A festival spokesman perfectly captured the film's spirit, remarking, "Everyone needs a Nick in their life."
