For Lisa McDonnell, roller skating has always been in her blood.

McDonnell, 70, was born to two elite skating coaches. Her father served as vice president of the Roller Skating Rink Operators Association (RSROA). She started skating at age four and went on to become an artistic roller skater. In 1974, she earned a gold medal for artistic roller skating, becoming the first in the nation to do so

“I’m so pleased that I grew up in this world of roller skating,” McDonnell said. “It’s something that I love.”

She shared her story with about 15 residents on Wednesday, December 10, at the Senior Center — all while wearing roller skates. Dressed as Santa, McDonnell talked about dance-style performances, which are very similar to ice skating. Skaters are judged on the accuracy of their steps, their turns, and their overall rhythmic presentation.

“I feel like I’m better on skates than I am walking,” McDonnell joked.

She has also taken up marathon skating, completing about seven long-distance races so far. Her first race, in 2021, was in Sarasota, Florida, where she finished the 26.2 miles in one hour and 51 minutes. McDonnell said her goal is always to finish in under two hours, which puts her among elite racers.

In February, McDonnell will take part in a 24-hour marathon in Miami. Last year, she completed 61 miles in six hours.

She said she’s able to continue skating because the sport is “low impact on your joints.”

Many in the audience seemed interested in taking up the sport. McDonnell recommended wearing wrist guards, knee pads, and a helmet. She also pointed out that the “nice pavement” around town and along the trail to Lynn are great places to skate.

“We’re a perfect community to promote skating,” McDonnell said.