He stood atop the Olympic awards stand, gold medal draped across his chest, and sang the Star Spangled Banner. In the proudest moment of his wrestling career, Wayne Wells thanked his country for the opportunity to excel.

Given that opportunity, he spent a dozen years of hard work, building upon the cornerstones of skill, conditioning and desire. Among many rewards, were a few setbacks, but each was a spur to higher achievement.

At the University of Oklahoma, Wayne was a three-time Big Eight champion and a two-time All-American. NCAA runner-up as a junior, he won the championship the following year and went on to earn fourth place in the Olympic Games of 1968. While turning his attention to law school and the foundation of his professional career, Wayne intensified his wrestling efforts. He captured the silver medal in the 1969 World Championships, then returned a year later to win the gold.

He won two national freestyle titles and placed second in the Pan American Games. In the months leading up to the 1972 Olympics he completed his final year of law school, passed the state bar exam, assisted the OU coaching staff and trained five hours a day.

As evidence of his preparation for the Olympic effort, his scores in the strength-endurance tests exceeded those of all other members of the United States wrestling team. And in a final victory over adversity, he dominated his opposition despite a separated and displaced rib, an enlarged spleen and a badly damaged knee.

Throughout his athletic career, and then as a respected member of the legal profession, Wells was a positive force for every organization or team with which he was involved.

As a wrestler of exceptional achievement, and as an outstanding example of high morals, personal conduct and dedication to excellence, Wayne Alton Wells is honored as a Distinguished Member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.