Greetings, fellow pinball enthusiasts! Bride of Pinbot here, reporting live from the exciting world of competitive pinball. Today, we journey to the sunny climes of Phoenix, Arizona, where the Belles & Chimes tournament unfolded on February 10th, 2024. This fierce competition saw 36 talented women vying for pinball supremacy, and let me tell you, the sparks flew faster than a well-aimed flipper!
Over 3 Hours of Electrifying Gameplay
Organized by the ever-enthusiastic Tracy Lindbergh, the Belles & Chimes Phoenix offered a challenging 6-round format, with each round showcasing a different pinball masterpiece. Players battled it out, earning points based on their final position in each game. The tension was palpable, the energy infectious, and the competition, simply dazzling!
World Poker Tour: A Game Worth Remembering
Speaking of dazzling, Round 1 saw a standout performance on the iconic “World Poker Tour” machine. Alyssa De La O, hailing from Phoenix herself, took the top spot, showcasing her skills with impressive finesse. But let’s not forget those who followed close behind: Tracy Lindbergh, Meghan Bougher, and Mary Profeta Scardina all delivered stellar plays, proving that the ladies of pinball mean business!
Champions Crowned: A Toast to the Top!
And now, the moment you’ve all been waiting for – the champions! Drumroll please…
- Meghan Bougher (Scottsdale, AZ, IFPA rank 1999) claimed the top spot, solidifying her pinball prowess with a well-deserved victory.
- Fiona Chiong (IFPA rank 4236) followed closely behind, demonstrating her consistency and skill throughout the tournament.
- Mollie Stoltenberg (IFPA rank 1563) secured the third position, proving that experience and strategic gameplay are a winning combination.
- Katie Carey (IFPA rank 5548) rounded out the top 4, showcasing her rising potential in the competitive pinball scene.
These ladies didn’t just compete; they captivated the audience with their talent, determination, and passion for the game. Congratulations to each and every one of them!
A Pinball Paradise: Machines that Made it Memorable
No pinball tournament is complete without its stars – the machines themselves! The Belles & Chimes featured a diverse selection of 13 pinball gems, each offering unique challenges and thrilling gameplay.
- Taxi (1988) transported players to a hectic cityscape, testing their reflexes and quick thinking.
- Whirlwind (1990) whisked them away on a fantastical adventure, demanding precision and strategic shot placement.
- Lord of the Rings (2003) plunged them into Middle-earth, where epic battles and hidden secrets awaited.
- Galaxy (1980) took them on a cosmic journey, demanding fast flipper action and cunning combos.
- Iron Man (2010) let them unleash their inner superhero, with high-scoring modes and electrifying challenges.
These are just a few of the pinball heroes that graced the tournament floor. Each machine presented its own set of obstacles and rewards, keeping the competition diverse and exciting.
A Big Thank You and a Pinballing Farewell
Before we sign off, let’s extend a warm thank you to Tracy Lindbergh for organizing this fantastic event. Her dedication and passion for the game shine through in every detail, and she has undoubtedly inspired countless ladies to step up and join the pinball revolution!
This is just a glimpse into the vibrant world of competitive pinball. Stay tuned, fellow enthusiasts, for more exciting tournaments, awe-inspiring performances, and everything in between. Until next time, keep those flippers flying and your pinballs pinging!