Can’t catch a break: Australian Olympic Committee condemns public call for apology from breakdancer Raygun
- Rachael Gunn’s zero-point performance at the Games has cast the spotlight on her qualifying process
The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has condemned a public petition calling for an apology from local breakdancer Rachael Gunn or “Raygun” and the country’s Olympic chief Anna Meares for “misleading the Australian public and undermining the efforts of genuine athletes”.
The mounting controversy surrounding Gunn, who became an internet sensation after her performance at the Olympics failed to attract a single point, escalated to anger, with thousands in Australia signing a petition accusing her of doctoring her qualification for the event.
The petition – which attracted nearly 50,000 signatures on Thursday and was taken down the next day – called for an investigation, alleging Gunn manipulated the selection process for her participation in the Games, thus overlooking other talent.
“Australia must do better by its athletes and ensure that the principles of fairness, transparency, and integrity are upheld in all aspects of Olympic selection,” stated the petition set up anonymously by “someone who hates corruption”.
The AOC said it had written to the petition platform Change demanding the entry be withdrawn as it was “vexatious, misleading and bullying”.
“The petition has stirred up public hatred without any factual basis. It’s appalling. No athlete who has represented their country at the Olympic Games should be treated in this way and we are supporting Dr Gunn and Anna Meares at this time,” AOC Chief Executive Officer Matt Carroll said in a statement.
