Photos by Timothy Mabins Jr
Hayden Compton
Hayden Compton is a 15-year-old freshman at Durant High School who competes in wheelchair track, where he participates in the 100, 200, 400, and 800 meter races.
How long have you been doing wheelchair track?
I have been competing for 5 years!
Out of the 100, 200, 400, and 800m races, which is your favorite and why?
The 800-meter is my favorite event because it’s more competitive, with drafting and passing when racing against other chairs.
What’s your favorite thing about this sport?
I love how wheelchair track lets me push my body and mind to their limits. Training hard and seeing that work pay off in races gives me a huge sense of pride. I also really enjoy being able to compete alongside my peers on the track team.
What’s the hardest thing about this sport?
The hardest part of wheelchair track is pushing myself when I’m racing alone in a heat. Without anyone next to me, it becomes a mental battle, just me versus me. Staying motivated and focused in those moments takes a lot of discipline.
Has doing wheelchair track taught you any life lessons? If so, what are they?
Wheelchair track has taught me how to be resilient. After knee surgery, I couldn’t get in my chair for four months. I had to start over, rebuild my strength, and trust the process. The sport taught me patience, grit, and how to keep pushing forward even when things feel impossible. That lesson sticks with me every day.
Is this something you want to pursue throughout the rest of high school?
Yes, I would love to continue competing through high school and college.
What’s an area of wheelchair track that you want to improve in?
I need to get stronger so I can be faster.
What advice would you give someone wanting to start wheelchair track?
My advice for someone starting out in wheelchair track is to find a local group or team where you can try out a racing chair and just give it a shot. Don’t worry about being perfect right away, just focus on showing up, learning, and having fun. Once you’re in the chair, you’ll start to figure out what works for you.
When you’re not doing track, what are you doing in your free time?
When I’m not doing track, I like to stay active by playing wheelchair basketball or trying out different adaptive sports with Hillsborough County Adaptive Sports. I’m also involved in student council, I enjoy reading, and I stay focused on keeping my grades up.
Do you have any pre-track rituals that you have to do before you compete? If so, what are they?
I eat a sub and relax before my events.