Rachael Gunn’s Journey to the Paris Olympics
Rachael Gunn, known by her breaking alias Raygun, captured the world’s attention with her daring and original performances at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The 36-year-old university lecturer from Sydney, Australia, found herself at the center of a social media whirlwind after her routines went viral, with millions viewing her performances. Balancing her academic career with her passion for breaking, Gunn represented Australia on the global stage, competing among the world’s top B-girls and B-boys.
A Unique Style Sparks Debate
Despite her enthusiasm and creativity, Gunn’s performances at the Games received a polarized response. Competing in three round-robin battles at the iconic Place de la Concorde, Raygun showcased her distinctive style, which included moves like the kangaroo hop and backward rolls. However, she was unable to secure a single point against her competitors, losing 18-0 in each of her battles against USA’s Logistx, France’s Syssy, and Lithuania’s Nicka.
The internet was quick to react, with some users on social media platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter) critiquing her routines as “hilariously ridiculous” and questioning how she had made it to the Olympics. Even singer Adele commented during a concert in Munich, humorously suggesting that her performance was “the best thing that’s happened in the Olympics.”
Defending Creativity in Breaking
Despite the criticism, many within the breaking community and beyond have come to Raygun’s defense. Gunn, who has a PhD focusing on gender and breaking culture, emphasizes the importance of creativity and originality in her performances. “All my moves are original,” she stated. “Creativity is really important to me. I go out there and show my artistry.”
Martin Gilian, the chief breaking judge at the Olympics, praised Gunn’s originality, noting that she brought something new to the table by incorporating her surroundings into her routines. Similarly, Sergey Nifontov, general secretary of the World DanceSport Federation, expressed concern over the negative social media response, highlighting the need for greater understanding and appreciation of breaking as an art form.
A Story of Courage and Character
Gunn’s journey to the Olympics is a testament to her perseverance and dedication. Starting her breaking career in her mid-20s, after practicing other dance forms like ballroom and jazz, she has continually pushed boundaries in a male-dominated sport. Her courage and character were particularly evident during the closing ceremony, where she received overwhelming support from teammates and fans alike.
Anna Meares, Australia’s chef de mission and former professional cyclist, praised Raygun for her resilience and determination, highlighting the challenges she overcame to compete at the highest level. Meares emphasized that Raygun embodies the Olympic spirit and represents the best of Australian breaking.
The Future of Breaking in the Olympics
Breaking, which originated on the streets of New York City in the 1970s, made its Olympic debut in Paris as part of the International Olympic Committee’s effort to engage younger audiences. However, its future in the Olympics remains uncertain, with breaking not scheduled for the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. As the debate continues, Raygun’s performance at Paris 2024 serves as a reminder of the sport’s artistic roots and the diverse interpretations that make it unique.
