Tinker boxer makes his mark at nationals Published June 18, 2009 By John E. Banks Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Boxer James Barber, a member of the 965th Airborne Air Control Squadron, recently represented Tinker at the United States Boxing Nationals in Denver. He was selected to compete in the competition as a result of his success at the U.S. Air Force Boxing Training Camp and Armed Forces Boxing Championships. "This opportunity gives me a chance to represent the USAF and Tinker at the highest level of athletic competition," said Barber, who fought in the featherweight class. Going into the event, Barber trained in and out of the ring to get into the best possible shape. Barber said his exercise regimen consisted of sparring and weight and aerobic training to take advantage of his quickness and stamina in the ring. In the preliminary round, Barber scored a victory over Avios Griffin by technical disqualification. The win sent Barber to the second round of the tournament. His next opponent was Ernesto Garza, the No. 1 ranked bantamweight within USA Boxing and the reigning Golden Gloves champion in the weight class. Though Barber lasted all three rounds, Garza won by a unanimous decision and ended the Tinker boxers tournament title hopes. Barber said he will use this as a great learning experience. "My goal is to return next year to represent Tinker and the USAF," he said. "I will have one more year under my belt and I will be stronger, which will hopefully lead to a more successful outcome at the U.S. Nationals."