At 85, Langley resident Gary Rombough reached the top of the Grouse Grind in North Vancouver for the first time — a dream seven years in the making, built atop a year of focused training.
On June 8, 2025, Gary hiked the 2.5-kilometre trail, climbing all 2,830 stairs, supported by a team of 22 BCRPA Registered Personal Trainers. He reached the top in 2 hours and 38 minutes.
“I feel really good. I’m satisfied, I’m happy,” Gary told CTV News after the climb. “I actually did it.”
This won’t be the last Grouse Grind for Gary. His final goal is to set a record for the oldest person to complete it. That record is currently held by another Langley resident who completed the feat on their 91st birthday back in 2016.
Gary plans to take that record for his own when he’s 91 and a half— in June 2031.
Gearing Up for the Grind
With an elevation gain of 800 metres, Shannon Whieldon — BCRPA Trainer of Fitness Leaders and BCRPA Fitness Professional of the Year 2022 — emphasized physical and psychological safety as top priorities.
“Self-doubt can loom like a black cloud. You need good preparation and a team to help you break through that first barrier,” she said. “This is not an easy task. It takes training, strength, determination, and a well-trained team.”
Shannon organized the climb and helped train Gary alongside about 30 other fitness professionals, many of whom joined him for the June hike.
Gary began training in July 2024 with two ambitious goals: to complete the Grouse Grind and prepare for a walking tour in England planned for this September.
With core strength, mobility, and endurance as key focus areas, he faced major challenges, starting with severe sciatica, limited flexibility, and minimal cardio capacity.
But his commitment to the long-term journey set the foundation for steady progress.
“It’s truly inspiring what he has been able to achieve,” Shannon added.
Gary’s ascent was timed around National Health and Fitness Day on June 7, an annual celebration of physical activity.
Gary’s support team is already looking ahead to scaling the Grind again on June 7, 2026.
From the first training session to the final step at the summit, Gary’s story celebrates the strength of community and the lifelong benefits of physical activity. It’s a powerful reminder that with the right support and determination, it’s never too late to reach new heights.
Related: ‘It’s been a ball’: Reflections from a Retiring Fitness Leader at 81