As the neon lights of Captain’s Arcade Showroom in Anaheim, California, flickered against the overcast sky of February 5th, 2024, a unique blend of competition and camaraderie unfolded. The OC Belles & Chimes Season 14 – #1 pinball tournament, expertly organized by CC Castaneda, brought together nine fervent players for an evening that was as much about the joy of pinball as it was about the thrill of the competition.
Captain’s Arcade Showroom: A Pinball Haven
Walking into Captain’s Arcade Showroom at 4411 East La Palma Avenue feels like stepping into a treasure trove of pinball history and innovation. With a lineup of 32 pinball machines, including classics and modern marvels, the venue was the perfect backdrop for a tournament. It’s a place where CC not only organizes tournaments but also ensures every pinball enthusiast leaves with a smile, whether it’s from winning a round or unboxing their very first pinball machine.
The Heat of Competition
The tournament’s structure was straightforward yet intense, with players battling it out in one round of six games. Points were awarded based on their finishing positions, turning every flipper hit and bumper bash into crucial moments that could lead to victory or defeat.
A standout moment of the evening was the fierce competition on the “Paragon” by Bally, a machine that dates back to June 1, 1979. CC Castaneda herself, hailing from Anaheim, clinched first place in this round, showcasing skill and a deep understanding of the game, followed closely by Anita Dominqu from Irvine and Grace Licerio, who both put up a formidable fight.
Triumphs and Triumphants
As the dust settled and the final scores were tallied, the winners of the tournament were clear:
- Laura Stoddard – Hailing from California, Laura, with her IFPA rank of 2133 and experience from 331 IFPA events, stood atop the podium, a testament to her skill and strategic gameplay.
- Hillary Jacobson – Securing the second spot, Hillary’s performance, backed by her IFPA rank of 1102, was nothing short of impressive, showcasing her prowess across all games.
- Erica Oursland – Coming in third, Erica demonstrated her pinball expertise, solidifying her position as a formidable player in the pinball community.
- Nicole Thornhill – Nicole rounded out the top four, with her consistent gameplay and strategic decisions earning her a well-deserved spot among the tournament’s best.
A Salute to Pinball Royalty
The tournament featured an eclectic mix of pinball machines, each adding its flavor to the evening. From the rock and roll energy of “Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast” by Stern to the fast-paced action of “Foo Fighters (Premium)” and the classic allure of “Skateball” by Bally, there was something for every pinball enthusiast. “Totem” by Gottlieb and “Road Kings” by Williams also stood out, offering a blend of nostalgic charm and challenging gameplay.
A Heartfelt Thanks
As the lights dimmed and the last pinball rolled to a stop, it was time to extend a heartfelt thank you to CC Castaneda for orchestrating such a memorable event and to Captain’s Arcade Showroom for providing a sanctuary for pinball lovers. The OC Belles & Chimes Season 14 – #1 tournament was more than a competition; it was a celebration of the enduring spirit of the pinball community.
Stay tuned for more tales from the pinball world, where flippers meet steel balls in an endless dance of skill, luck, and pure joy. Until next time, keep those bumpers bouncing and the high scores rolling!