For many people, finding one passion in life is enough. For Germany’s Noah Hegge, three have become inseparable.
An Olympic medallist, former pastry chef, and co-founder of a clothing brand, Hegge has built a life that extends far beyond the whitewater course.
While Canoe Slalom remains at the centre of his world, food and fashion have become equally important parts of his identity.
Growing up in Augsburg, often regarded as the slalom capital of Germany, Hegge was never far from the water.
Following in the footsteps of his older brother Samuel, he developed a love for paddling at an early age.
When Samuel qualified for Germany’s national youth team at the age of 12, Noah Hegge had a clear example of what was possible.
While chasing his ambitions in Canoe Slalom, Hegge was balancing a demanding schedule.
“I started pastry making after school,” said Hegge.
“It was a busy time because I would wake up at 5am, start my work as a chef and then after I would head to the canal to train.
“At the time I also qualified for the junior national team, so I didn’t get much holiday, so it was busy couple of years.”
The schedule was relentless, but after three years, Hegge made a decision.
“I said I will just focus on the sport with hopes of the Olympic Games,” he said.
The gamble paid off.
In 2022, Hegge secured the men’s kayak teams title at the World Championships in Augsburg, a breakthrough moment in front of family and friends.
Two years later, he reached the biggest podium of his career, winning Olympic bronze in kayak cross at the Olympic Games Paris 2024.
Years of dedication and sacrifice had delivered the results he had dreamed of, and Hegge found a way to combine his passions.
Together with his brother, they launched a clothing brand that reflects the culture they have built around sport, creativity, and food.
“We started with pop-up events and restaurants, as well as food and drinks,” said the 27-year-old.
“I worked for three years as a pastry chef, and my brother is still working in the kitchen as a chef. Food is a very important thing in our family.”
The brothers front a shop in their home city and set up a weekly running group, AWHU running, every Tuesday evening.
“We also had some art from friends, some music too, we do sports, meet together, and just have a good time,” said Hegge.
That sense of community is something Hegge carries with him wherever he races. Around World Cup venues, he is often spotted wearing pieces from the brand, proudly representing the project he and his brother have built together.
“After training I’ll always put the beanie back on,” he laughed.
“My hair is a little longer, so it just makes things easier.”
Now, after the opening two Canoe Slalom World Cup events of the season, Hegge returns to the place where it all began.
“To race [on the Eiskanal] here is very special,” he said.
“It’s my home course in my home city.
“I started paddling on this course and have spent much of my life here training.
“It’s nice to be on the start line and have my family and friends here.”
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