SUP coming to Lake Lorraine

FlowAndPaddle_web.jpg

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is coming to Lake Lorraine — the first activity allowed to take place on the water at the growing westside development.

Friessen Development, Inc. is working with Flow and Paddle to offer a variety of SUP classes and rentals. Classes will begin at Lake Lorraine starting Thursday, June 11.

“Our family always had a goal of bringing activities on the water as we built up the development,” said Patty Vognild, Vice President of Friessen Development, Inc., the entity developing Lake Lorraine. “We see Flow and Paddle as a natural fit with making Lake Lorraine a destination.”

With a number of area pools being closed for the summer and a continued emphasis on social distancing activities, developers felt the timing was right to offer SUP on Lake Lorraine. Because the lake is privately-owned, no public activities are allowed on the water, including swimming and fishing. Only Flow and Paddle class participants or equipment renters, who are required to sign a waiver, will be allowed on the lake.

Flow and Paddle is owned by Cassandra Willett, a World Paddle Association (WPA)-certified SUP instructor. Willett is a native of Flandreau, South Dakota, and is also certified in first aid, as well being a yoga teacher trainer, SUP yoga teacher trainer, SUP instructor and is still continuing her education. She is married to Reginald Willett, who also helps her with Flow and Paddle.

“I hope to provide each of the students with knowledge of paddle boarding and water safety instruction so they will be comfortable getting on the paddleboards and walking on water with us,” Willett said.

The company started in 2019, holding their classes at area lakes and on the Big Sioux River. Lake Lorraine developers and Flow and Paddle have been in discussions for the better part of a year to bring SUP to Lake Lorraine.

“Safety is a huge concern for any events or activities that are held at Lake Lorraine,” Vognild said. “We’re excited to work with Flow and Paddle to bring quiet enjoyment to the lake. I believe spectators like myself will also enjoy seeing this fun activity on the water!”

Flow and Paddle offers SUP classes as well as private lessons. Prices range from $10 to $40. Starting in mid-June, their home base will be Lake Lorraine, though they will continue to offer Big Sioux Empire River tours via SUP. Flow and Paddle is also offering classes this summer through the Sioux Falls School District’s community education program. 

Classes offered at Lake Lorraine include:

  • Vinyasa SUP Yoga (1 hour, 15 minutes): practice sun salutation yoga on the water

  • Gentle SUP Yoga (1 hour, 15 minutes): gentle and slow yoga flow with modified poses

  • SUP Fit (1 hour, 15 minutes): SUP combined with water fitness interval training

  • SUP 101 Youth (1 hour): beginner-friendly class specialized for youth

  • SUP 101 Adult (1 hour): beginner-friendly class

  • Private Sessions (1 hour)

  • Paddleboard rentals

Participants will be provided with the SUP, a personal floatation device, whistle, leash and paddle. Clients will need to sign a waiver. All classes come with on-land instruction. Optional items to bring include water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, change of clothes, hand sanitizer and mask.

Flow and Paddle has a seasonal building near the southwest part of the lake, at the corner of Westlake Drive and Terry Avenue. To learn more about class times, follow Flow and Paddle on Facebook and Instagram. Gift cards and registration for classes are available at flowandpaddle.com.

 

ABOUT LAKE LORRAINE:

Lake Lorraine is a lifestyle center near 26th Street and Marion Road being co-developed by Friessen Development, Inc. and Van Buskirk Companies. Lake Lorraine offers diverse shopping and dining options, from national brands to unique Sioux Falls-only finds, all surrounding a 30-acre lake. When completed, the area will offer an eclectic mix of shopping, dining, office, residential spaces and recreational opportunities. Learn more at LakeLorraineSiouxFalls.com

ABOUT FLOW AND PADDLE:

Flow and Paddle’s mission is to provide, promote and support safe outdoor recreation for all to engage in active, healthy lifestyles and experiences. Learn more and register for classes at FlowAndPaddle.com. 

Amy Smolik