Alex's Whitewater Climb for KERPA
July 3, 2027
How many laps can you do?
Join us up at Whitewater for a meaningful day in the mountains as we remember Alex Zimich and raise awareness and funds for KERPA — the Kootenay Emergency Response Physicians Association.
On July 3 from 7:00am to 5:00pm, Rob Zimich, Alex's dad, and Dr. Nic Sparrow from KERPA will be running and hiking laps from the Hummingbird Lodge to the top of the Silver King chair. Whether you'd like to challenge yourself with a lap or two, cheer Rob on, or simply come visit and learn more about KERPA’s lifesaving work — everyone is welcome.
We'll have DJs spinning on the Hummingbird Lodge Patio plus a barbecue starting at 12:00pm, so you can grab a delicious bite up in the alpine and spend some time with our amazing community.
2026 Silent Auction Contributors
In honour of Alex
Alex Zimich tragically lost his life in a boating accident on Kootenay Lake on May 26, 2022. That day, Dr. Nicholas Sparrow from KERPA arrived by helicopter and delivered hospital-level emergency care on the lakeshore.
While Alex could not be saved, the presence of KERPA and Dr. Sparrow’s exceptional skill and compassion brought peace to the Zimich family and saved Rob’s life.
The Route
We invite you to take a lap (or as many as you like), visit us at the Hummingbird Lodge for a barbecue, celebrate Alex’s memory and support KERPA’s mission, or donate to KERPA and help them continue this vital work in our region.
The route will take you up into the alpine with a distance of 4.3km and an elevation gain of 251m. Starting at the Hummingbird Lodge, you'll make your way up the Quartz Ski Way Trail to the top of the Silver King chair, and back down the Silver King Trail to the Hummingbird Lodge.
Alex’s Whitewater Climb for KERPA is more than just a day on the hill — it’s a celebration of community, remembrance, and gratitude.
Alex loved the outdoors — in winter on the ski hill, and in summer hiking and climbing — and we know he'd be stoked to see friends, family, and new faces out in the mountains.
We hope you'll join us to support this incredible cause and honour Alex's legacy.
About KERPA
KERPA is a Canadian registered charity, founded in 2016, that sends qualified volunteer Emergency Response (EMS) physicians directly to the scene of the most critical and immediate threat to life 911 calls in the Kootenay area and it is fully funded by community donations.
The Zimich family is very thankful for the first responder support Rob and Alex received on that day from the 911 dispatch, the Creston RCMP, and the BC Ambulance Service, and they are incredibly grateful for KERPA and Dr. Sparrow. Living in large city centers, it can be easy to take for granted the availability of extensive emergency and medical services. What KERPA provides for our rural and isolated communities is truly remarkable.
DJ Les Go
The Hummingbird Lodge Patio
12:00pm - 3:00pm
Giles Todd, aka Les Go, is a Bristol, UK born DJ and organiser shaped by the UK’s free party and festival circuit. In Bristol, he co-founded the S4R collective, hosting DIY nights across the city’s underground venues as well as summer yard parties.
Drawing inspiration from Australia and Europe’s psychedelic scenes, together with Romania’s minimal sound, Les Go’s sets span deep, hypnotic grooves, pumping trance, rolling house, and disco.
Since relocating to Nelson in early 2025, Les has immersed himself in the local scene, drawing inspiration from the Kootenays’ natural beauty while contributing to its unique, grounded sound.
DJ Charlie Holiday
The Hummingbird Lodge Patio
3:00pm - 6:00pm
Charlie Holiday is a UK-born DJ whose love for electronic music began in Bristol, chasing late-night dance floors and discovering the sounds that would shape his taste for years to come. Since moving to Nelson, DJing has become a way to share that connection — bringing together the styles and energy that first pulled him into club culture.
Expect a mix of funk-driven house, shuffling garage rhythms and punchy, feel-good grooves, all delivered with a light-hearted approach and a strong focus on keeping the vibe alive.
Why not stay the night?
Not ready to leave at the end of the day?
Book your stay at the Hummingbird Forest or RV Campground, where you can spend the weekend in the alpine!
Campground amenities include power hookups, showers, an indoor dishwashing station, and flush toilets.
For more information, reach out to .
