Rachael Gunn’s breakdancing controversy

Rachael Gunn, known by her stage name “Raygun,” has recently made waves not only for her talent as a breakdancer but also for her resilience in the face of criticism as she competed at the Olympic level, as breakdancing makes its Olympic debut at the Paris 2024 Games.

Gunn’s journey into the world of breakdancing began in her hometown of Hornsby, where she developed her skills and passion for the art form. With countless hours of practice, she eventually earned her place among the top dancers in the nation, setting her sights on the Olympics. Her dynamic style and innovative moves quickly garnered attention.

However, despite her skill and dedication, Raygun has found herself the target of online hate, with some social media users questioning her place in the Olympics and even her abilities as a dancer. She was accused – without evidence – of manipulating her way onto the world’s biggest stage at the expense of other talent in the Australian hip-hop scene. Comments such as “She doesn’t represent the true spirit of breaking” and “Why is she even here? There are better dancers out there” have flooded platforms like Twitter and Instagram, reflecting a pervasive sentiment among some detractors.

In response to this backlash, Gunn has spoken out, emphasising the importance of resilience and the value of community in the sport. “Breaking isn’t just about competition; it’s about expression and connection,” she stated in a recent interview.  Furthermore, in a video posted to social media in the eye of the public storm, Gunn added that she had taken the competition “very seriously. I worked my butt off preparing for the Olympics and I gave my all. Truly.” She had only been trying to “bring some joy”, she said. “I didn’t realise that that would also open the door to so much hate, which has frankly been pretty devastating.”

“I worked my butt off preparing for the Olympics and I gave my all. Truly.”

After competing at the Olympics, Gunn has continued to advocate for a more inclusive and supportive community within the breakdancing scene. She has emphasised that the spirit of breakdancing is not solely about competition but also about artistry, expression, and the bonds formed within the dance community. In public appearances and social media, she has addressed her critics with grace, stating that while she acknowledges the concerns of some within the hip-hop community, she believes in the transformative power of dance to inspire joy and connection.

Chloe S, Year 10