Barton Wresting sets program record at Swede Open #GoBarton

Gage McBride of the 10th ranked Barton Community College wrestling team captured the Bethany Swede Open this past Saturday in Lindsborg, Kansas, leading three placers in setting a program Open record by compiling a 41-31 overall record.

Placing third last week in Oklahoma, McBride methodically marched his way to the 174 title with a sudden victory before two decisions in reaching the championship match defeating his second consecutive Fort Hays wrestler in a 12-8 decision over Martin Verhaeghe.

Gable Howerton took second in the 157 division rolling to the semifinals with consecutive pins then before advancing to the finals with a 5-0 win over NEO's Zach Porter. Fort Hays' Efe Osaghae spoiled the title hopes with a 20-4 tech fall.

Keaton Sander rebounded from a tough first round 141 division loss to win five consolation bracket matches including two major decisions and a pin before dropping the third place match 7-6 to NEO's Corbin Nirschi.

Barton's next action comes this Saturday as the Cougars travel to Kearney, Nebraska, for the UNK Holiday Inn Open.