Beneath the exhilarating hum of pinball machines and the synchronized bursts of light lay the scene of one of the most competitive pinball battles of the year: The SCPL Classics Beat the Clock. On September 30th, 2023, the Meuller Residence transformed into a battleground for pinball enthusiasts as 29 players clashed in a marathon event that stretched just short of 6 hours.
Historic Highlight: Team One
One moment that had everyone’s eyes riveted to the flippers was during the semifinals. The vintage gem, Team One by Gottlieb from 1977, became the stage for an epic showdown. Mike Flanagan hailing from Houston with an IFPA rank of 1342, took the lead with finesse and style. Greg Megan trailed, followed by David Pollock and Lisa Shore. The machine, over 45 years old, reminded everyone of the lasting allure and challenge of pinball, regardless of its age.
Pinnacle of Pinball Excellence
The culmination of the tournament witnessed strategic mastery and pinball dexterity. Jim Mueller, with an impressive IFPA rank of 360, emerged as the champion, with Tom Cornell and David Pollock capturing the second and third spots respectively. Mike Flanagan, the star from the semifinals, secured the fourth position. Each of these players demonstrated remarkable skills and a deep understanding of the game, captivating the audience with every flick, tilt, and bumper hit.
A Glimpse into Pinball Legacy
The tournament showcased a total of 12 pinball machines, but some deserved a special spotlight. Team One‘s legacy was evident, but other machines like Alien Poker, Flash Gordon, Jungle Princess, and Paragon presented an equally nostalgic experience. Machines like Hotdoggin’ and King Kool transported players back in time, emphasizing the rich history and evolution of pinball.
Texas Titans: IFPA Standings
The tournament not only brought enthusiasts together but also shook the IFPA Texas Pinball standings a bit. Here’s how the top players are positioned:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jack Revnew | The Woodlands | 501.1 |
| 2 | Garrett Shahan | Denton | 442.74 |
| 3 | Phil Grimaldi | Houston | 338.48 |
| 4 | Wesley Johnson | College Station | 327.53 |
| 5 | Fred Revnew | The Woodlands | 255.07 |
| 6 | Lee Balusek | Conroe | 254.5 |
| 7 | Brian Krivonak | Corpus Christi | 246.12 |
| 8 | Collier Whitefield | San Antonio | 227.23 |
| 9 | Kevin Rodriguez | Denton | 223.02 |
| 10 | Jim Mueller | Houston | 222.34 |
In the realm of pinball, the buzz never dies down. As the balls shoot up and players take on the machines, each tournament writes a new chapter in the book of pinball glory. Stay tuned for more pinball pandemonium!