No Medals, No Problem: How Raygun Turned a Zero into the Ultimate Win for Self-Expression

Lessons from Raygun's Olympic Performance: Be Yourself, Have Fun, and Overcome Backlash

Recently, I found myself wanting to join in on the excitement surrounding Australian breakdancer Raygun, who made headlines with her unique and controversial performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Inspired by her unapologetically creative routine, I decided to have a little fun of my own—imagining myself dancing alongside her in that unforgettable moment.

And why not?

I don’t take myself too seriously. After all, life—and bar exam preparation—is serious enough without adding unnecessary stress. There’s something liberating about letting loose, embracing your quirks, and not worrying too much about what others think.

But let’s get back to the Australian breaker.

Raygun, whose real name is Dr. Rachael Gunn, captivated the world with her Olympic debut—not for winning a medal, but for her zero-point performance that quickly went viral. Her routine, which featured kangaroo-inspired moves, sparked a storm of mixed reactions. While some celebrated her originality and courage, others launched a harsh wave of online criticism, culminating in a petition demanding apologies from her and Australia's Olympic officials.

Raygun’s experience at the Olympics wasn’t just about dancing; it became a test of her resilience. The backlash she faced was, by her own account, “devastating.” The petition, which gained over 54,000 signatures before being removed for misinformation, accused Raygun of undermining the efforts of other athletes. It’s a stark reminder of how public perception can quickly turn, especially in the age of social media, where criticism can spread like wildfire.

Despite the negativity, Raygun remained true to herself. In response to the backlash, she shared an Instagram video expressing gratitude for the support she received and reaffirmed her commitment to her craft.

“I went out there and I had fun—I did take it very seriously,” she said, emphasizing the hard work she put into preparing for the Olympics. This is a powerful lesson for all of us: even in the face of harsh criticism, staying true to who you are and what you stand for is essential.

1️⃣ Embrace Your Individuality

Raygun didn’t conform to the traditional expectations of breakdancing. Instead, she brought her unique style and cultural influences to the Olympic stage.

Similarly, whether you're preparing for the bar exam or facing any other significant challenge, it's crucial to embrace who you are. Your unique strengths, perspectives, and experiences can set you apart and be your greatest asset.

2️⃣ Don’t Fear Criticism

Raygun’s response to her critics shows that while it’s important to acknowledge feedback, it’s equally important not to let it define you. She faced a storm of online hate, yet she remained focused on her achievements and the joy she brought to others.

In bar preparation, you might encounter doubts—both from within and from others. But like Raygun, it’s important to stay focused on your goals and not let negative feedback derail your efforts.

3️⃣ Have Fun with It

One of the most admirable aspects of Raygun’s performance was that she genuinely seemed to enjoy herself. She wasn’t just competing; she was expressing her art and having fun.

Bar prep can be grueling, but it’s important to find joy in the process. Whether it’s through study groups, creative memory techniques, or even just taking breaks to do something you love, remember that enjoying the journey can make the end result that much sweeter.

4️⃣ Overcome Adversity with Grace

Raygun’s handling of the backlash, particularly her public statements and requests for privacy for her family and community, demonstrates the importance of maintaining dignity in the face of adversity. She didn’t shy away from the challenges or the criticism, but she also didn’t let it overshadow her passion and dedication.

In your own journey, whether in bar prep or beyond, remember that how you respond to setbacks is just as important as how you achieve your goals.

Raygun’s Olympic moment, while unconventional, reminds us all that being ourselves and having fun along the way is just as important as the end goal. Her story is a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about hitting the highest marks—it’s also about staying true to who you are, overcoming adversity, and enjoying the journey, no matter what others might say.