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New studio puts focus on health

Gwynne Studio opens at UVic’s Centre for Athletics, Recreation and Special Abilities

The Centre for Athletics, Recreation and Special Abilities was the site of the official unveiling of the Gwynne Studio last week.

The studio was named following a generous contribution from Linnea Turnquist and her family to help support healthy living in Victoria and reinforce CARSA’s commitment to well-being, active lifestyles, inclusiveness and mental health.

A UVic graduate in 1992 and a former women’s rower with the Vikes, Linnea named the Gwynne Studio in honour of her parents, Gaylard and Eleanor Turnquist, and the hamlet of Gwynne, Alta., where her family’s homestead resides. The Gwynne Studio symbolizes the union of  Linnea’s familial roots in Alberta and her new home here in Victoria. Linnea feels strongly about giving back and making a difference in the community and is thrilled to be a part of the CARSA legacy.

“The years I spent at the University of Victoria were some of the best of my life, and they sent me on a path of lifelong exploration in many ways,” Turnquist said. “Giving back has always been part of this path and I wanted to set the example that giving a gift shouldn’t wait until you’re at the end of your life.

“Give what you can, when you can, and enjoy watching others benefit. Living your life isn’t about living a life of perfection. It’s about being willing to take risks, put it all out there and be proud of what you do no matter what people think.”

The Gwynne Studio will serve as a space within CARSA where all students, staff, faculty and members of the greater Victoria community can work towards a healthy mind, body and spirit in a safe and positive environment.

For Kevin Ram, former executive ambassador for Vikes Nation for two years, the inclusive qualities of the Gwynne Studio follow hand-in-hand with the student experience at the University of Victoria.

“Being a part of Vikes Nation means more than just an active, healthy community,” said Ram. “It’s about inclusiveness, family and connecting with each other on a personal basis as well as a whole. I’ve been fortunate to help foster and be apart of the growth and support within this community all the while creating everlasting memories and unique experiences.”

 

The naming of the movement studio joins other community partners in supporting the CARSA building, which opened in May 2015. The Peninsula Co-op Climbing Centre, Lynda and Murray Farmer Walk of Excellence, RBC Blue and Gold Room, the Ian and Gillian Stewart Varsity Weight Room and the UVic Alumni Association Spirit Section are all iconic parts of the 190,000-square-foot athletics and recreation facility.