Rachael Gunn

Meet Rachael Gunn: The Breakdancing B-Girl Who Shook the Paris Olympics!

Dive into the drama of Rachael Gunn, aka B-Girl Raygun, who went from viral sensation to social media meme at the Paris Olympics!

Rachael Gunn, widely known in the breakdancing community as B-Girl Raygun, is the fierce Australian competitor who stole the limelight at the 2024 Paris Olympics – though not always in the way she might have hoped. With her unique style of freestyle breakdancing that includes moves reminiscent of a kangaroo's hop and some stylish toe-touches from a lying position, Gunn certainly brought something new to the dance floor, and her performances quickly drew attention online. However, instead of receiving applause, she faced a wave of social media trolling despite being a well-respected university lecturer back in Sydney.

The criticism reached a boiling point following her routine on August 9, which many deemed unconventional. Australia's chef de mission, Anna Meares, swiftly came to her defense, denouncing the “disappointing” and “misogynistic” backlash faced by female athletes like Gunn. In an emotional response, Meares emphasized that the trolling reflects broader issues within sports culture, where female competitors are often subjected to harsh scrutiny and ridicule. "Locked in a room crying," the team boss described the emotional toll on Gunn who, despite the critics, showed resilience in the face of adversity.

Many fellow breakdancers and fans have rallied around Raygun, reminding the world that dance is not just about technique but also about expressing individuality and creativity. Fellow breakers voiced their support on social media, calling for respect for Gunn’s efforts and contributions to the dance scene. After coming out of the controversy, Raygun has maintained a positive outlook and has become increasingly committed to advocating for inclusivity in breakdancing, emphasizing that every performer brings a unique flavor to this expressive art form.

In an interesting twist, this fiery breakdancer isn't just focused on the Olympics; Gunn balances her athletic career with her role as an educator, where she teaches dance techniques to the next generation. At 36, Rachael defies the stereotype of a typical Olympian, showing that age doesn’t dictate ability or creativity. With her viral status cementing her presence in the sports world, Rachael Gunn aims to use her platform for advocacy, creating a supportive community for fellow artists, and paving the way for future athletes to shine, regardless of their style or age.