May 24, 2024, was an evening filled with excitement and fierce competition as pinball enthusiasts gathered at What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters for the highly anticipated Belles & Chimes SATX – Spring 2024 #5 tournament. With a format designed to test skill and endurance, ten players battled it out over six rounds, each round comprising two intense games. The top four players then moved on to a gripping final round, where three games determined the ultimate champions. The tournament was masterfully organized by Christina Cheeseman, ensuring a smooth and thrilling experience for all.
Joker Poker Showdown: A Game to Remember
Round 1 of the tournament featured an unforgettable match on the classic Joker Poker pinball machine by Gottlieb, dating back to January 8, 1978. The game’s vintage charm and engaging playfield provided the perfect backdrop for an epic showdown. Tricia Gronnevik, ranked 5794 by IFPA, emerged victorious in this round, showcasing her pinball prowess. LouAnn Bailey, Julia Mendez, and Sophie Gronnevik also put up a formidable fight, each demonstrating remarkable skill and strategy.
Celebrating the Champions
The tournament concluded with the crowning of four outstanding players, each earning their place on the podium through sheer determination and exceptional talent. Let’s congratulate our champions:
- Sophie Gronnevik – IFPA rank 5700, with an impressive total of 139 IFPA events under her belt.
- Tricia Gronnevik – IFPA rank 5794, a seasoned competitor with 168 IFPA events to her name.
- Julia Mendez – IFPA rank 34961, with 38 IFPA events, proving that persistence pays off.
- LouAnn Bailey – IFPA rank 10366, having competed in 30 IFPA events, showing remarkable growth and skill.
Pinball Machines That Stole the Show
With a diverse selection of 53 pinball machines, the tournament offered players and spectators a nostalgic and thrilling experience. Here are five standout machines that added a special flair to the event:
- JAWS (Pro) by Stern (January 2024): This new release captivated players with its immersive shark attack theme and cutting-edge features.
- Stranger Things (Pro) by Stern (December 2019): Fans of the hit TV show loved the spooky, adventure-filled gameplay.
- The Flintstones by Williams (July 1994): A nostalgic favorite, bringing the beloved cartoon characters to life with fun and interactive elements.
- Deadpool (Pro) by Stern (August 2018): This machine’s humor and fast-paced action kept players on their toes and entertained.
- The Addams Family by Bally (January 1992): A timeless classic, known for its quirky design and engaging gameplay that never gets old.
Venue Vibes: What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters
The choice of venue, What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters, was nothing short of perfect for this tournament. Located at 138 West Rhapsody Drive, San Antonio, TX, this unique coffee shop offered a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. First-time visitors were pleasantly surprised by the chill vibe and friendly patrons. While not everyone was a coffee aficionado, the hot cocoa with extra whipped cream and the cinnamon roll were highly recommended. The variety of pinball machines added an extra layer of excitement, making this venue stand out.
A Grateful Nod to Our Organizer and Venue
A heartfelt thank you to Christina Cheeseman for organizing such a fantastic event, and to What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters for hosting us in their wonderful space. Stay tuned for more updates from the exhilarating world of pinball! Keep those flippers flipping and the scores soaring!