On a crisp evening, with the temperature flirting at a chilly 40°F, the Pinball Gallery in Malvern, PA, became a vibrant battleground for pinball enthusiasts. The JAWS Pro Launch Party Women’s Tournament, meticulously organized by Bill Disney, transformed the venue into a haven of excitement, competition, and nostalgia. With clear skies overhead, the atmosphere inside was anything but calm. The event, held on March 1, 2024, drew a crowd eager to witness pinball prowess at its finest.
The Gallery’s Atmosphere
The Pinball Gallery, known for its eclectic mix of both classic and modern games, played the perfect host to this thrilling event. The venue, which often garners praise for its well-maintained machines and friendly staff, was buzzing with energy. You can even rent it out for corporate events
The Contenders and Their Conquests
Eighteen players, each with a unique approach and style, went head-to-head in a series of intense matches. The format was straightforward yet demanding – 10 games for each player, with the top 8 moving onto the finals. The competition was fierce, but friendly, with participants cheering each other on, sharing tips, and reveling in the sheer joy of the game.
The Champions
The tournament witnessed some remarkable performances, culminating in a list of winners who not only showcased exceptional skill but also a deep understanding of pinball strategy. Here’s a shoutout to the champions:
- Tessa Morton: With 5 wins under her belt and an IFPA rank of 1912, Tessa’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. Her strategic gameplay and calm demeanor under pressure were a sight to behold.
- Kim Smith: A local from the Pinball Gallery itself, Kim, with their 6 wins, proved that familiarity with the machines can be a massive advantage. Their IFPA rank of 4677 belies their true pinball prowess.
- Terri Morton: Terri, hailing from Pennsylvania, demonstrated remarkable skill, securing 4 wins and an impressive IFPA rank of 3411.
Rounding out the podium was Kathy Bobeck, Carly Valenzuela, Jackie Himes, Stephanie Savy, and Anita Thallmayer: Each of these players brought their A-game, making the tournament an unforgettable experience.
The Machines That Stole the Show
While the tournament was undeniably about the players, the pinball machines themselves were the silent stars of the show. Among the 74 machines, a few stood out not just for their gameplay but for their significance and design:
- Joker Poker by Gottlieb: A classic that never fails to charm, its presence reminded everyone of the timeless appeal of pinball.
- James Bond 007 (Premium) by Stern: With the longest average game duration, it was a test of endurance and strategy.
- Spider-Man by Stern and Elvira’s House of Horrors: Both machines offered not just exciting gameplay but a dive into the themes that have shaped pop culture.
- Medieval Madness by Williams: A machine that combines challenging gameplay with a humorous take on the medieval theme.
A Night to Remember
As the tournament drew to a close, the sense of community and shared passion was palpable. Bill Disney, the organizer, and the Pinball Gallery, the venue, deserve immense gratitude for creating an event that went beyond mere competition. It was a celebration of the pinball spirit – a blend of nostalgia, skill, and above all, fun.
As we look forward to more such gatherings in the pinball world, let’s remember the joy, the excitement, and the friendships forged over the flickering lights and buzzing sounds of pinball machines. Here’s to many more flippers, high scores, and the timeless charm of pinball!