Graduate competes in Olympics

Former wrestling champion Heinrich Barnes made NIC history when he qualified for the 2008 Summer Olympics, only a year after graduating. Born in Pretoria, South Africa, he brought new and exciting techniques to the mat, said head wrestling coach Pat Whitcomb.

After Barnes placed eighth overall in the Junior World Championships, it was easy for Whitcomb to see he would be an asset to the team.

“Barnes was an accomplished wrestler,” Whitcomb said. “He brought a new style of wrestling to NIC.”

According to Whitcomb, Barnes was the second wrestler from NIC to make it to the Olympics. Shawn Williams was the first.

Barnes represented his native country while competing in the Olympics. In Beijing, Barnes was eliminated in the first round.  Many, including Whitcomb, hope to see this extraordinary athlete compete again in the 2012 Summer Olympics.

“I’m real proud to have coached an Olympian,” Whitcomb said.

Barnes is attending Oregon State University.