Michael Gunning is an international swimmer who represented both Great Britain and Jamaica across a successful elite career spanning more than a decade. Specialising in freestyle and butterfly events, he competed at multiple World Championships and was a multiple-time British and Jamaican champion.

Michael made history as Jamaica’s first openly gay athlete on the national team, becoming a powerful symbol of representation and resilience in global sport. Throughout his career, he balanced elite performance with advocacy, using his platform to promote inclusion, athlete wellbeing, and positive change within swimming.

Since retiring from professional competition, Michael has remained closely involved in the sport as a speaker, mentor, and TV broadcaster. He directed and produced his first documentary, Beneath the Surface, for Sky Sports, and works with national governing bodies, charities, and brands to support participation, diversity, and mental health across all levels of aquatics. As a Speedo athlete and ambassador for initiatives such as Swimathon, Michael continues to inspire swimmers, coaches, and communities through honest storytelling and lived experience.

View Michael Gunning's website

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