DNA #195: Simon Dunn Discusses Family, Sport And Wanting To Be A Role Model
FEATURED: Simon Dunn | Instagram
On Saturday, January 21, it was confirmed by NSW Police that Simon Dunn has died. The LGBTQIA+ athlete and gay rights activist was a long-time collaborator with DNA and our team extends our sincerest condolences to Simon’s family and loved ones.
In lieu of his death, we have created a handful of tributes to Simon Dunn honouring his strength, courage and light. In this interview that Simon did with us for DNA #195, he talked about being an advocate for gay athletes in sport, wanting to be a role model for future generations and learning to accept himself.
DNA: You are Brakeman on the Australian Bobsleigh Team. When we think of Australia, we don’t think of snow. How does Australia come to even have a team, and how did you get into the sport?
Simon Dunn: Australia started competing at the Olympics in Bobsleigh in 1988, so the team is almost as old as me! I originally moved to Calgary to play rugby, a sport in which my strengths have always been that I’m strong and fast. Through the club I met the Pilot (driver) for the Australian team and it was suggested that I try out. The rest is history.
What’s the most common misconception about bobsleigh?A common misconception is that we brake on corners. There’s definitely no braking until after the finish line. I’d probably be kicked off the team if I did it any earlier.
Is there a difference between bobsleigh and bobsled?
Bobsleigh and bobsled are exactly the same thing just one is the English term and the other American.
This may be another dumb question, but is bobsleigh the same as the luge?
There are actually three main disciplines in the sliding sport world; the easiest way to remember is luge is feet first, skeleton is head first and bobsleigh we all run, push, and jump in a larger sled than the other two disciplines. If you’re still confused, think Cool Runnings for bobsleigh.
How are your Olympic prospects, and when will you know if you’ve made it to South Korea?
South Korea is still a very long time away. Right now I’m just going season for season and hoping to improve as an athlete. Tryouts for the Olympic team will commence in September next year. Fingers crossed!
For this shoot, Christian Scott took you to the beach during one of Australia’s hottest summers on record. Was it nice to not be in snow?
I grew up by the ocean so it’s always nice to get back. Surprisingly I hate the cold and snow with a passion!
Did you enjoy the shooting process?
It’s definitely a new experience for me; I’ve had a few photo shoots but I’m a lot more comfortable in the gym.
We hear that even though it was 36C (97F) degrees, when you arrived back in Australia, you went off to train with your old rugby team, The Sydney Convicts. Do you still play for them? Like at Bingham Cup time?
Right now with bobsleigh commitments I can only afford the time to play during Bingham Cup time. I really do miss playing for them and rugby is where my heart is, so it’s always nice to have a run. Beyond bobsleigh, I see myself playing a few more seasons with them before hanging up the boots!
Have you seen Scrum, the documentary on The Convicts, and what did you think?
I have. The first time I’ve been able watch it was on my flight back for Mardi Gras. I was a nice way to fly home and get all nostalgic!
The last few years have seen many gay professional athletes coming out. What’s changed that’s made that possible?
As more athletes come out I think the trend is showing that it’s safe to do so, people aren’t losing sponsors or receiving the public backlash that they would’ve received only 10 years ago.
Both Nike and Adidas are actively supportive of gay athletes now. Are other sporting brands and sponsors coming on board?
Unfortunately, I’m yet to see any other notable brands coming on in support of the LGBT community.
Is there a gay athlete who particularly influenced or inspired you?
Growing up playing rugby league I was always a fan of Ian Roberts. Seeing an openly gay athlete excel in a sport that I was passionate about was great. I hope I can be that role model to teens and young gay athletes.
Do you think there are different challenges to being out in sport than there are to being out in other professions or fields?
What is it about sport that resonates so strongly with fans and spectators, or even just the people who tune in once a year for a grand final? I’m clearly a tad biased on this as I’m someone who eats, lives and breathes sport. I think especially in Australia it’s entwined within our culture.
Do you think there are misconceptions about masculinity and athletic ability?
I think it’s more misconceptions on what masculinity is. You don’t need to be a big straight male to be masculine and therefore have athletic ability. It simply comes down to your ability to perform.
Were you a sporty kid?
I loved sport growing up. I was predominately into rugby league but I gave most sports a try. It wasn’t until my early teens that I realised I enjoyed running over people rather than around [and that’s when] I gravitated towards contact sports.
Are there any other sports that you’d like to get into?
A major part of bobsleigh training is Olympic weightlifting. This is something I see myself continuing with post-bobsleigh.
What three things do you most like/dislike about living in Calgary?
I’m not the biggest fan of living here but it does serve a purpose as it keeps me focused on training. Three things I dislike are the things I value about being home in Sydney: family, friends and the ocean.
What do you find similar/different between Canada/Australia?
The people tend to be a lot more accepting of the LGBT community, even though I live in what you’d call a rural city.
You are really rocking the Tom Of Finland look at the moment. Do you think that’s part of your appeal to so many guys?
Truth be told I was kind of getting bored of the beard and wasn’t ready to go clean shaven.
You’re single – who’s your kinda guy?
Indeed, I am single. Generally, someone who’s down to earth, enjoys sports and is willing to put up with me!
What’s your favourite beer?
I like beer a lot! So when I’m back in Australia I tend to drink Pure Blonde, just in the hope of not getting a beer gut.
Who inspires you the most?
My niece and nephews. They think I’m the greatest person in the world and I’m motivated not to prove them wrong. It’s a nice feeling when those you care for most are the proudest of you.
Do you encounter people with a fetish for the bobsleigh unitards?
Often. I also joke that my husband will need to have a thing for Lycra, considering it’s something I wear on a daily basis.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Be true and honest to yourself. Being a gay man will eventually turn out to be a blessing. It’ll take you a long time and a lot of mistakes to realise this, but it all works out in the end!
GoFundMe
A GoFundMe page has been established by Simon’s management to raise funds on behalf of Simon’s family to assist with covering the costs of his public funeral.
