Thu Oct 31 12:30:00 UTC 2024: ## From Olympic Mockery to Stellar Cover: Rachael “Raygun” Gunn Rises Above the Hate

Rachael “Raygun” Gunn, the Australian breakdancer who faced intense criticism after her performance at the Paris Olympics, is now gracing the cover of Stellar magazine, showcasing a stunning transformation and a defiant message.

Gunn’s unique approach to breakdancing at the Games drew heavy criticism, with some accusing her of disrespecting the Olympics. She lost all three of her matches, and her performance sparked an international outcry. However, Gunn, an academic and lecturer at Macquarie University, has emerged from the storm stronger than ever.

In her Stellar cover story, Gunn states, “You did not bring me down. You did not succeed. I still stand by what I did,” showcasing her unwavering spirit despite the negativity she faced.

While acknowledging the pain of the online hate, Gunn emphasized that she approached the Olympics with dedication and seriousness. “I worked my butt off preparing for the Olympics and I gave my all, truly,” she said, expressing pride in representing Australia and witnessing the phenomenal achievements of other athletes.

In a gesture of recognition, Gunn was honored with a statue erected in a Melbourne suburb earlier this month. She is currently stepping back from competitive breakdancing, focusing on regaining the joy of the art form.

“It’s been nice. It’s been a bit of a process to try and start dancing again… It was my medicine, and then it turned into my source of stress,” she shared. Gunn hopes to reclaim the therapeutic power of breakdancing, stating, “I can kind of finally feel free again. I’m looking forward to breaking, but, no, I don’t think I’ll compete for a while.”

While Gunn’s journey has been marked by both praise and harsh criticism, she has proven that she is a force to be reckoned with, rising above the negativity to inspire others. This cover story serves as a powerful testament to her resilience and determination.

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