Swimmer Michael Gunning talks crushing stereotypes, dating app mishaps & pivoting to a career in TV
one of the most homophobic nations on Earth. Despite enduring death threats from his fellow Jamaicans, Gunning became one of the most accomplished swimmers in the island’s history.
He holds the country’s records for the 200-meter butterfly and 200- and 400-meter freestyle events.A post shared by Michael Gunning (@michaelgunning1)A post shared by Michael Gunning (@michaelgunning1)A post shared by Michael Gunning (@michaelgunning1)The 29-year-old was on track to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Games.
Then COVID hit. He was stuck in Great Britain and was barred from using Team GB’s facilities.That disheartening conundrum seemingly factored into his decision to retire from swimming in 2021.
But he’s stayed in the public eye since then. Over the last couple of years, he’s emerged as a crucial advocate for both the Black and LGBTQ+ communities.“I’ve got so much more to give the world,” he said in a 2022 interview with the Guardian. “The amount of lives that I’ve impacted means more to me than medals.”This summer alone, Gunning has partnered with Speedo to encourage young people of color to take up swimming; started his own racing clinic; and presented at the Just Like Us Awards, which celebrate those improving the lives of LGBTQ+ youth.
