Australian b-girl Rachel “Raygun” Gunn recently spoke about her controversial performance in breakdancing’s Olympic debut, which went viral on social media last month. Gunn, a 36-year-old university professor, admitted that going into the competition, she knew she was overmatched and her chances were slim. Despite this, she qualified for the Paris Olympics after winning the QMS Oceania Championships in Sydney and being named the top-ranked b-girl by the Australian Breaking Association in 2020 and 2021. Gunn became an instant sensation with her creative performance that included a “kangaroo dance,” showcasing Australian moves and themes.
Gunn faced harsh criticism from those who didn’t understand the different styles of breaking, with many attacking her and her crew, as well as the breaking and street dance community in Australia. Gunn expressed surprise at the amount of vitriol she received, noting that she expected some criticism but not to this extent. Despite the negative reactions, she remained proud of her performance and the inspiration she drew from her strengths. Gunn emphasized that breaking allows for taking inspiration from any source, leading her to incorporate Australian elements into her routine.
During the Paris Olympics, Gunn was swept in all of her battles without earning a single point in the round-robin stage. This experience was described as tough by Gunn, who didn’t anticipate the overwhelming response her performance would receive. She explained that she didn’t watch her own Olympic performance and is unlikely to appear on the Olympic stage again anytime soon, as breaking is not included in the program for the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. Gunn’s background as a university lecturer with a Ph.D. in cultural studies, where she researches dance, contributed to her unique approach to breaking and adding her personal style into her routines.
Despite facing criticism and backlash following her Olympic performance, Gunn remained resilient and proud of her accomplishments. She highlighted the importance of staying true to her strengths and unique style in the world of breaking, regardless of the opinions of others. Gunn’s ability to draw inspiration from her Australian heritage and incorporate it into her routine showcased the versatility and creativity inherent in breakdancing. Moving forward, Gunn’s experience at the Paris Olympics serves as a testament to her dedication and passion for the art of breaking, despite the challenges and adversities she faced on the global stage.
