Hayden Compton: Redefining What It Means to Be an Athlete
Gamechanger of the Week: Hayden Compton
At just 15 years old, Hayden Compton is showing the world what it means to be an athlete. The U17 National Champion in the 100m, 200m, 400m, and 800m wheelchair track events, Hayden’s drive and perseverance have made him a force to be reckoned with.
Hayden’s journey into the sport began when he was introduced to adaptive PE after moving to Las Vegas in the second grade. At first, his family wasn’t sure what to expect, but that decision led him to a monthly event called Paralympic Night, where athletes could try different Paralympic sports. One night on the track was all it took for Hayden to discover his passion.
“I really liked track since my whole family runs,” Hayden explained. “I wasn’t even in a wheelchair at the time, but after talking to people, my parents agreed that I needed one. I ran one year on my feet and then began using a racing chair the following year.”
But Hayden’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. COVID-19 delayed his start in the sport, and when he was in sixth grade, he was denied a chance to compete at middle school state even though he was competing alongside his peers at other meets. He didn’t let that setback hold him back.
By the following year, Hayden was competing in high school track and qualified for the state meet. Since then, he’s competed at three Junior Nationals, won a Kentucky state championship, and brought home multiple U17 National Champion titles.
For Hayden, being an athlete means showing up and putting in the work every single day—no matter how well-known the sport may be.
“Wheelchair track doesn’t get a lot of attention, but that’s never stopped me from working hard,” he said. “I train because I love seeing how far I can push myself. It’s also about being committed to growth. Every race, every practice is a chance to improve, and that’s what keeps me going.”
Hayden’s perseverance and mental toughness have made him stand out. “There are setbacks and times when it would be easy to give up,” he said. “But being an athlete means pushing through that and finding ways to keep moving forward.”
We’re proud to honor Hayden as our first Gamechanger of the Week. His story is a reminder that champions are made through dedication, resilience, and a true love for their sport.
Follow Hayden on Instagram @rockinwheelz09 to see his progress and cheer him on as he continues his journey.
