A 22-year-old Greater Victoria man who died snowboarding on Mount Washington last week has been identified in an online fundraising campaign, Go Fund Me.
Tristan Alexander was snowboarding on an intermediate terrain run during a snowstorm on Jan. 5. He was with four companions but did not meet them at the base of the hill as planned.
He was found by his friends, who assisted in the search. He was unresponsive and despite life-saving measures, did not survive. His was the third death of a skier/snowboarder on the mountain since 2015.
“It is inconceivable that this wonderful young man who has been such a source of strength and resilience has been taken from them.”
In 2013, Alexander spoke to Black Press Media about his various athletic ventures. Then 14 years old, Alexander was one of two extremely gifted judokas training out of the Victoria Judo Club. He went on to win several gold medals in international judo tournaments. He was also captain of his hockey team and played basketball with the Bay’s junior team.
Martial arts school Kokushikai Judo posted a tribute to Alexander on its Facebook page Jan. 6.
“Knowing you has made me a better person, and you will be missed by everyone Tristan Alexander. It was an honour to have known and trained with you.”
GoldMiners Coach Kyle Smart reflects on his time with Tristan, Coach says he was an amazing kid who changed those around him. “I always had Tristan In leadership roles, as he gained instant respect from both those who played with him and against him”. He had a terrific work ethic that was evident in his, and our teams success both on and off the ice.” Smart adds, “ outside of hockey, his dedication to self betterment won him many international judo competitions and awards.”
He was an amazing human being with a kind heart and would do his best to make those around him better. ”It’s a very sad day. He will be missed by many. Thoughts are with the family at this very difficult time.”
