Under a clear Floridian sky with a gentle 61°F breeze, The Pinball Lounge at the Oviedo Bowling Center became the epicenter of pinball excitement on December 5th, 2023. The Bonanza 12/5/23 tournament, meticulously organized by Kurt van Zyl, was not just a test of skill but a celebration of pinball’s rich history and vibrant community.
The Pinball Lounge: A Hub for Pinball Enthusiasts
Visitors to The Pinball Lounge, nestled at 376 E Broadway Street in Oviedo, FL, find themselves immersed in a pinball wonderland. With an extensive selection of machines and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a haven for both die-hard pinball fans and curious newcomers. The absence of food or drink trials didn’t detract from the experience, as the vast array of pinball machines more than compensated, offering hours of entertainment.
Celebrating the Legacy of Paragon
A special highlight of the tournament was the celebration of Paragon by Bally’s anniversary. Paragon’s project started on December 5, 1978, and has stood the test of time, enchanting players for over four decades with its intricate artwork and challenging gameplay. This classic machine, known for its captivating backglass and playfield design, encapsulates the golden era of pinball. The Paragon game in Round 4 was a riveting display of skill and strategy. Garrett Smoke emerged victorious, followed by Dawn Ziatyk, John Osborne, and Doug Bernard from Orlando, each player bringing their best to this classic machine. It was a round filled with cheers, high-fives, and a shared appreciation for Paragon’s enduring charm.
The Champions of the Evening
The tournament concluded with a showcase of exceptional skill and strategic gameplay:
- Dawn Ziatyk – A triumphant display of pinball mastery led to her well-deserved victory.
- Garrett Smoke – Consistent and focused, earning a respectable second place.
- Al Neumann – Showed impressive prowess to secure the third position.
- Justin Derazza – Finished strong, rounding out the top four with a commendable performance.
A Selection of Pinball Legends
The tournament featured 28 pinball machines, each with its own unique allure. Machines like Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern, Star Wars (Premium) by Stern, Venom (Premium) by Stern, and Rush (LE) by Stern not only challenged the players but also added to the diverse tapestry of the evening’s entertainment.
An Evening to Remember
As the final scores were tallied and players exchanged stories and laughs, The Pinball Lounge – Bonanza 12/5/23 tournament left everyone with a sense of fulfillment and camaraderie. It was a night that celebrated not just the winners but the entire pinball community, and the timeless joy that these machines bring to our lives.
For more stories from the captivating world of pinball and updates on upcoming tournaments, keep your flippers ready and your eyes on this blog!