raygun: Olympic Breakdancer Raygun responds to critics calling her ...
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Raygun, the Australian breakdancer who gained viral attention for her unconventional style at the 2024 Paris Olympics, has responded to critics who derided her distinctive dance moves.
In an interview with ESPN, published on August 10, the 36-year-old competitor, whose real name is Rachael Gunn, addressed the backlash and reaffirmed her commitment to her unique artistic expression.
Raygun's Response to Criticism
Raygun's performances in the Olympic debut of breaking as an event garnered significant attention on social media, with some viewers mocking her moves as "kangaroo-like" and comparing them to playful antics of children. Despite the jesting, Raygun remains steadfast in her belief in the value of creativity and originality in her dance style.
"I was never going to beat these girls on what they do best — their power moves," Raygun explained. She referred to her competitors: Team USA's b-girl Logistx, 21, France's Syssy, 16, and Lithuania's Nicka, 17. "What I bring is creativity”, as mentioned in a report by People.
Raygun emphasized that her performances are a reflection of her artistry. "All of my moves are original. Creativity is really important to me," she said. "I go out there, and I show my artistry. Sometimes it speaks to the judges, and sometimes it doesn't. I do my thing, and it represents art. That is what it is about."
Support from Australian Chef de MissionAustralia’s chef de mission, Anna Meares, has publicly defended Raygun against the criticism, highlighting the challenges faced by women in the male-dominated sport of breaking. Meares criticized the online negativity as "sexist" and expressed disappointment at the treatment Raygun received, as per the People’s report.
"I love Rachael, and I think that what has occurred on social media with trolls and keyboard warriors, and taking those comments and giving them airtime, has been really disappointing," Meares told ESPN.
"Raygun is an absolutely loved member of this Olympic team. She has represented the Olympic team, the Olympic spirit with great enthusiasm. And I absolutely love her courage. I love her character, and I feel very disappointed for her, that she has come under the attack that she has."
Raygun's Background and JourneyRaygun, who is also a university lecturer in Sydney, transitioned to breaking from jazz and ballroom dance in her 20s. Her academic work includes studying the "cultural politics of breaking," reflecting her deep engagement with the sport.
Meares highlighted Raygun's perseverance, noting her struggles and triumphs in a field dominated by men. "In 2008, she was locked in a room crying being involved in a male-dominated sport as the only woman, and it took great courage for her to continue on and fight for her opportunity to participate in a sport that she loved," Meares said. "That got her to winning the Olympic qualifying event to be here in Paris. She is the best breakdancer female that we have for Australia."
FAQsIs RayGun in the Olympics?She secured a spot by winning the 2023 Oceania Breaking Championship, and she represented Australia at the 2021 and 2022 World Championships. Her style wasn't enough to pass the group stage in Paris, but she is undoubtedly a qualified representative for her region.
Does Raygun have a PhD?She holds a PhD in cultural studies, with her thesis titled Deterritorializing Gender in Sydney's Breakdancing Scene: A B-girl's Experience of B-boying. Her research explores the intersection of gender within Sydney's breaking culture.
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