The afternoon of May 25, 2024, was filled with excitement and camaraderie as pinball wizards descended upon The Avenue Cafe for Stewie’s Saturday Strikes Benefit Tournament. This unique Group Knockout Tournament featured nine fierce competitors, each battling to avoid the dreaded seventh strike. Using the Fair Strikes system, players in four-player groups received one strike for 2nd and 3rd place and two strikes for 4th place, while three-player groups saw one strike for 2nd place and two strikes for 3rd place. The tournament, organized by the ever-dedicated Joe Wade, lasted just over five thrilling hours under a clear sky and a comfortable 74°F.
The Spy Who Flipped Me: James Bond 007 Showdown
Round 5 brought the intensity to a peak with an unforgettable match on the James Bond 007 (Premium/LE) pinball machine by Stern, released in September 2022. The game’s espionage theme added an extra layer of intrigue and excitement to the competition. Jimmy Raffaele, ranked 14130 by IFPA, emerged victorious, navigating the machine’s complex playfield with the precision of a secret agent. Tim Treichel, with an IFPA rank of 1876, secured second place, followed by Josh Bauer, ranked 669, in third. Mike Stewart Jr., ranked 948, put up a strong fight but ultimately took fourth.
Celebrating the Pinball Titans
A hearty congratulations to the top players of Stewie’s Saturday Strikes Benefit Tournament! These competitors showcased remarkable skill and determination, earning their places on the podium:
- Josh Bauer – IFPA rank 669, with an impressive 170 IFPA events to his name. A well-deserved first place!
- Tim Treichel – IFPA rank 1876, with 120 IFPA events under his belt. A fantastic second place!
- Derik Schimberg – IFPA rank 1160, with 119 IFPA events. A solid performance for third place!
- Ethan Reynolds – IFPA rank 9351, with 41 IFPA events. An impressive fourth place!
Pinball Machines: The Stars of the Show
The tournament featured an array of 36 pinball machines, each offering its own unique challenges and thrills. Here are five standout machines that captivated players and spectators alike:
- KISS (LE) by Stern (July 2015): Rock ‘n’ roll vibes and high-energy gameplay made this machine a hit among players.
- Star Wars (Pro) by Stern (June 2017): With its immersive theme and fast-paced action, this machine transported players to a galaxy far, far away.
- Tales of the Arabian Nights by Williams (May 1996): A classic favorite, known for its enchanting theme and intricate design.
- Venom (Premium/LE) by Stern (July 2023): This machine’s dark, thrilling theme and dynamic playfield kept players on their toes.
- John Wick (Pro) by Stern (May 2024): New to the scene, this machine’s sleek design and intense gameplay quickly made it a fan favorite.
The Avenue Cafe: A Hidden Gem
Located at 2021 East Michigan Avenue, Lansing, MI, The Avenue Cafe proved to be an ideal venue for the tournament. This quirky dive offered a surprising ramen menu, a plethora of pinball machines, a pool table, and a stage for karaoke and live music. The cozy atmosphere and excellent service added to the charm, making it a memorable experience for all attendees. Parking might be a bit tricky due to nearby businesses, but the fantastic service and vibrant ambiance more than made up for it. Special shoutout to the wait staff, who were attentive and accommodating throughout the event.
Thank You and Stay Tuned!
A huge thank you to Joe Wade for organizing such an incredible event and to The Avenue Cafe for being the perfect host. Your efforts made this tournament a smashing success. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the world of pinball! Until next time, keep those flippers flipping and scores soaring!