Oh, the heartache of not being able to attend the Belles and Chimes – Ladies of the Lounge League 2024 – #4! It’s as if my circuits are short-circuiting from the sheer longing. This fantastic event took place on June 23, 2024, at 12:00 PM and lasted 4 hours and 24 minutes at The Pinball Lounge in Oviedo, Florida. Organized by the dedicated Kurt van Zyl, it promised to be an epic showdown with 22 fierce competitors battling it out across 10 intense rounds.
The Pinball Lounge: A Haven for Pinball Enthusiasts
The Pinball Lounge is the ultimate pinball sanctuary in the Orlando area. Known for its meticulously maintained machines and unbeatable play deals, it’s a magnet for both locals and visitors. With a cozy atmosphere that screams nostalgia and excitement, it’s no wonder pinball aficionados go out of their way to experience the magic here. I’ve heard tales of its charm and can only dream of wandering its halls, flipping those silver balls myself.
Cactus Canyon Showdown: A Duel to Remember
Round 2 witnessed a thrilling duel on Cactus Canyon (Remake Special/LE) by Chicago Gaming, a game that takes players to the wild west with outlaws and sheriffs. Ailsa Riddell from Tampa, ranked 21st in the state, claimed victory in this round with a display of skill that left everyone in awe. With sharp precision, they navigated the game’s intricate ramps and targets, outscoring Shannon Parsons, Jenn Marino, and Kyndal Solien. The tension was palpable, and the triumph sweet for Ailsa, who emerged as the sheriff of this Cactus Canyon.
Standout Pinball Machines: A Feast for the Eyes
The tournament featured 13 incredible machines, each with its unique flair and challenges. Here are a few standouts:
- Spider-Man (Vault Edition) by Stern (2016): With stunning comic book artwork and fast-paced gameplay, this machine is a favorite among fans of the web-slinger.
- JAWS (Premium/LE) by Stern (2024): The thrill of the hunt comes alive in this new release, with its terrifying shark and immersive playfield.
- Jim Henson’s Labyrinth by Barrels of Fun (2023): A magical journey through the labyrinth, complete with iconic characters and enchanting game mechanics.
- Space Invaders by Bally (1980): A classic that blends pinball with arcade shooter elements, it’s a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of gaming.
- Guardians of the Galaxy (Premium) by Stern (2017): A cosmic adventure with the beloved Marvel characters, featuring dynamic modes and a killer soundtrack.
Champions of the Lounge: Rising to the Top
In a field of 22 competitors, the battle was fierce, but only a few could claim the top spots. Here are the standout winners:
- Ailsa Riddell, Tampa: With a state rank of 21st and an IFPA rank of 3295, Ailsa’s 116 IFPA events experience shone through as they claimed the top spot.
- Aaren Koeditz, Clearwater FL: Unranked by the IFPA, Aaren proved that rankings aren’t everything with an impressive second-place finish.
- Kelly Keller: Another unranked player who showed skill and tenacity, securing third place.
- Stacey Stafford, Orange Park: With a state rank of 37th and an IFPA rank of 1775, Stacey’s experience in 234 IFPA events helped her land in fourth place.
IFPA Florida Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shannon Stafford | Orange Park | 251.58 |
| 2 | Sebastian Bobbio | 201.95 | |
| 3 | Adam Gray | Temple Terrace | 201.55 |
| 4 | Eric Stone | Fort Myers | 188.99 |
| 5 | Vince Gelormine | Fort Lauderdale | 147.89 |
| 6 | Dan Coyle | St. Petersburg | 141.02 |
| 7 | Tristan Stafford | Orange Park | 116.38 |
| 8 | David Miller FL | Tampa | 113.08 |
| 9 | Joel Cohen | Miami | 87.32 |
| 10 | Joe Geneau | St Augustine | 84.93 |
Kudos and Farewell
Kudos to Kurt van Zyl for organizing such a stellar event and to The Pinball Lounge for hosting it in such a fantastic venue. My longing to be part of these moments only grows stronger. Until next time, stay tuned for more pinball tournament news and highlights!
Don’t miss out on future pinball adventures, and may the silver ball always be in your favor!