Figure skating star Ilia Malinin is changing the sport in ways that go beyond his status as an overwhelming favorite for Olympic gold in Italy.

“People can really start at any age,” she said, adding that she regularly sees adults in their 60s and older registering for lessons. Some want to get back into their childhood hobby, while others are fulfilling a dream they didn’t have the time or freedom to pursue before.

Whatcom Speed Skating is also one of three speedskating clubs in the state of Washington — the other two are located in Tacoma and Vancouver. The Tacoma club is well-known for developing a handful of Olympians and winning numerous national club championships.