Westmoore High School track star Nathan Aryeequaye is all about trusting the process.

Last year, he placed second at the 6A state meet in the 300m hurdles with a time of 37.40, setting the WHS school record and ranking fourth nationally among juniors.

“Honestly, I never would’ve imagined that I could attain all of that success. I’m beyond grateful that God gave me the opportunity and the discipline to achieve that,” Aryeequaye said.

Aryeequaye’s running career began in seventh grade. Before that, he had never ran track and “wasn’t good at any other sports,” but it wasn’t until his sophomore year that Aryeequaye started taking his talents seriously.

“I started realizing the full potential I had my sophomore year when I placed fifth at state in the 300 hurdles,” Aryeequaye said. “From there, I was determined to continue in strides of greatness.”

No year has been more challenging than this one, Aryeequaye said. After several graduations and a coaching change, Aryeequaye has had to readjust this season.

He’s faced adversity before, though. The president of WHS’ Black Student Union, Aryeequaye helped organize Moore Public Schools’ first Black History Month Program his sophomore year. This February, he helped host the third annual event.

“The program included elements of cultural step, choir, spoken word, and other elements of African-American history,” Aryeequaye said. “We returned for a second year with a former Oklahoma senator as a guest speaker and an additional free show for the community. This event ended up being a staple show in the MPS District and had high schools and colleges from all over the state reaching out to be apart.”

He also serves as student council secretary, is in leadership class and is a worship leader in his church.

“Leadership is important to me because sports, medals, and recognition ultimately fade. Good character and making a positive impact in the environment around you is what will last,” Aryeequaye said.

This year, he was honored with being a team captain of the track team. Where there was a need for leadership, the team’s most talented athlete fulfilled it.

“With being one of the few that was on our team and contributed to our two consecutive state championships in 2021 and 2022, I’ve had to communicate that message to all of the new athletes,” Aryeequaye said. “The biggest challenge leadership wise on the track team is being selfless. It’s not about me and what I’ve done, but more so about how I can pour into everyone that will be at Westmoore after I graduate.”