On April 20, 2024, the Belles & Chimes Phoenix pinball tournament brought together a dynamic group of 22 players for a spirited competition. Organized by Tracy Lindbergh, the event featured six rounds of intense pinball action, each consisting of one game, lasting a total of 2 hours and 44 minutes.
Final Round Thriller on Jurassic Park
The tournament’s standout game occurred in the sixth round on the Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern, released in October 2019. This machine, known for its dynamic playfield and dinosaur-themed challenges, saw Mary Profeta Scardina clinch the first place, closely followed by organizer Tracy Lindbergh, with Terri Boyd and Sandra Garcia also putting up strong performances.
Tournament Champions Shine
The tournament concluded with impressive displays of skill and strategy:
- Krisha Shufran from Chandler, AZ, took home the first place with an IFPA rank of 2771, showing remarkable prowess across her 121 tournament appearances.
- Cara Eisinger from New River, AZ, demonstrated their growing skill in the pinball community, securing second place with a rank of 3706 over 65 events.
- Meghan Bougher from Scottsdale, AZ, earned a well-deserved third place with her consistent play, holding an IFPA rank of 2228 from 61 events.
- Tracy Lindbergh, not just the organizer but also a competitor, showcased her extensive experience by finishing fourth, a testament to her 529 tournament participations and a rank of 444.
Highlight Pinball Machines
The competition was supported by a lineup of 11 unique pinball machines, each bringing its own history and challenges to the playfield:
- Comet by Williams: A classic amusement park-themed table that offers players a nostalgic multiball experience with engaging ramps and loops.
- Tri Zone by Williams: An earlier generation machine that challenges players with its straightforward yet strategic gameplay.
- Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern: This modern machine captivates players with its interactive dinosaur captures and complex play modes.
- Diner by Williams: Delivers a lively 1950s diner atmosphere, where players rack up points by serving a series of quirky customers.
- Star Trek (Pro) by Stern: Engages players in the vast universe of Star Trek with missions based on the iconic series, offering a deep strategic experience.
A Word on the Venue
While the specific location for this event was not disclosed in MatchPlay, the enthusiasm and engagement of the participants made it a memorable gathering. We look forward to revealing more about the venue in future posts.
Appreciation for Organization
A special thank you to Tracy Lindbergh for organizing a smoothly run tournament and to all the participants who made the event a success despite the undisclosed location. The Belles & Chimes Phoenix community continues to thrive, bringing exciting pinball action to players and fans alike. Stay tuned for more updates from the pinball world!