Extreme sports athlete Matthias Weger has made history by being the first person to conquer the impressive Bad Gastein waterfall in a kayak. The daring descent through the thundering waters of the Pongau mountains is an unparalleled sporting achievement.

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Weger, an experienced kayaker and former professional canoe slalom racer, developed the idea a few years ago during a ski tour with friends. The idea stuck with him, and at the beginning of this year he decided to take on the challenge in earnest. “I knew that the waterfall was extremely difficult. The narrow corridor and rocky terrain in particular made it essential to prepare for this adventure,” explains the 28-year-old.

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The preparations included not only a precise analysis of the route, but also intensive physical and mental training phases. Weger visualized the route again and again in order to adjust to the extraordinary conditions of the waterfall, the height of which he conquered in just three seconds.

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Weger planned and realized the spectacular ascent with a team of top-class kayaking experts. On 19 August 2024, he rappelled above the waterfall and mastered the difficult passage with targeted maneuvers. His rapid descent was documented in detail and the experience recorded for posterity.

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“It was an incredible experience. But whether I'll do it again is uncertain,” said Weger after the successful descent. He is already planning further extreme sports projects, including an expedition in New Zealand, where he will combine kayaking and paragliding.

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The Bad Gastein waterfall, a landmark of the region, was previously an unconquerable obstacle, but Weger's achievement has now put it in a new light. Whether this adventure will find imitators remains to be seen.