The mist hung heavy over Bremerton, WA on February 19th, but the competitive spirit burned bright at Tik Tok’s Workshop. Richard Godwin’s weekly pinball tournament, known as Tik Tok’s Fair Strikes, saw 14 players vying for victory in a thrilling 11-round Group Knockout format.
Mandalorian Mayhem in Round 1
The tournament kicked off with a bang on The Mandalorian (Premium) by Stern. Daniel Trobare, ranked 2566 by the International Flipper Pinball Association, took home the top prize, leaving IFPA ranked 189 Conrad Rustad and Andrew McCann (ranked 803) in his dust. Bruce Cherry (ranked 7552) rounded out the group, but his pinball journey ended there.
Upsets and Triumphs: The Road to the Podium
Over the next 10 rounds, the Fair Strikes system kept the competition fierce. Players received strikes based on their placement within their groups, adding an extra layer of strategy and tension. Ultimately, four skilled individuals emerged victorious:
- Neal Joslyn (Bremerton, WA, IFPA rank 229): A seasoned campaigner with 591 IFPA events under his belt, Neal defied expectations by beating Conrad, despite his lower ranking to claim the top spot.
- Donovan Haga (Bremerton, WA, IFPA rank 1909): Another local hero, Donovan proved his mettle, jumping from his rank to secure a well-deserved second place.
- Andrew McCann (IFPA rank 803): Andrew maintained his strong ranking throughout the tournament, solidifying his position as a consistent force in the pinball scene.
- Conrad Rustad (Bremerton, WA, IFPA rank 189): Despite a valiant effort in Round 1, Conrad’s journey ended in fourth place, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the Fair Strikes format.
A Pinball Paradise: Tik Tok’s Workshop
The tournament took place at the vibrant Tik Tok’s Workshop, a haven for pinball enthusiasts. With 15 machines to choose from, including classics like Lord of the Rings and Monster Bash (Remake), and modern marvels like The Wizard of Oz (LE) and Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons, there was something for every player. The constant stream of music and the option to play tunes on the jukebox added to the lively atmosphere, making Tik Tok’s Workshop the perfect backdrop for this exciting competition.
A Big Thank You
A huge thank you to Richard Godwin for organizing this fantastic tournament and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for providing the perfect venue. We are already eagerly awaiting the next installment of pinball action!
Stay tuned for more updates from the world of pinball!