Marc Brulard

The name Jean Gounand is legendary among the rock faces of the French and Italian Maritime Alps. Whether through a bold first ascent, an audacious variation, an adjustable wooden wedge, or a simple piton stamped "JG," Jean has left his mark on countless routes. From the Baou de Saint-Jeannet to the Corno Stella and the Cougourde, he knows every line on these iconic peaks. A retired factory worker, he has harbored a lifelong passion for the mountains—one that remains stronger than ever at age 83; he heads out to climb with boundless energy, the same eagerness, and the same sense of wonder. A contemporary and climbing partner of mountaineering greats like Patrick Berhault, he has played an active role in the evolution of rock climbing for over half a century. It was with his characteristic kindness and humility—and eyes sparkling with joy—that he opened the door to his vertical world for us.

In the collective imagination, mountaineering is seen as an elitist and dangerous activity. When the mainstream press talks about mountaineering, it is generally related to a drama or an exploitation. The mountaineers are then placed in two categories. On the one hand, reckless supermen, engaged in a death struggle with the mountains.