Pinball Passion at Full Brew
Get ready to dive into the caffeine-fueled frenzy of the Belles & Chimes SATX – Summer 2024 #1 tournament! On June 28, 2024, at 6:30 PM, twenty players gathered at the vibrant What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters for a night of intense pinball action. The format was electric, with five rounds of two games each, leading to the top eight players advancing to the finals, featuring two rounds of three games each. The tournament lasted approximately two hours and forty-five minutes, wrapping up just in time for a final sip of espresso.
A Brew-tiful Place for Pinball
Located at 138 West Rhapsody Drive, San Antonio, TX 78216, What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters served as the perfect backdrop for this high-energy tournament. With scattered clouds and a toasty 95°F outside, the cool, laid-back vibe inside was a welcome escape. This spot isn’t your typical coffee shop; it’s where coffee meets culture and community. Patrons rave about the chill atmosphere, friendly faces, and the delightful pinball machines that make it stand out. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or a hot cocoa enthusiast, What’s Brewing? offers a cozy, inviting space. Check them out at What’s Brewing Coffee Roasters.
Machines That Made Magic Happen
With 53 pinball machines lighting up the venue, here are a few standout titles that kept players on their toes:
- Flash Gordon by Bally (1980): This machine transported players into an 80’s sci-fi adventure with its stunning artwork and challenging gameplay. Its fast-paced action and unique features like the inline drop targets made every round exhilarating.
- The Flintstones by Williams (1994): A delightful trip to Bedrock, this game’s vibrant visuals and playful sounds brought smiles to everyone’s faces. The bowling ball and dinosaur ramp were crowd favorites.
- Ghostbusters (Pro) by Stern (2016): With its captivating theme and interactive elements, players faced off against iconic ghosts, activating multiball modes and racking up scores in a supernatural showdown.
- The Getaway: High Speed II by Williams (1992): Speed and skill were essential in this high-octane race-themed game. The supercharger loop and police chase modes provided adrenaline-pumping excitement.
- Ninja Eclipse (Arcade Edition) by Turner Pinball (2024): The latest addition to the pinball world, this game featured sleek design and cutting-edge technology. Its dynamic playfield and innovative mechanics kept players engaged.
The Path to Victory
The competition was fierce as players navigated through rounds of challenging pinball action. Lauren Drullinger, hailing from San Antonio, clinched the top spot with her impressive skill and experience in over a hundred IFPA events. Tricia Gronnevik secured second place, showcasing her steady rise in the rankings with a remarkable performance. Emily Copp, an unranked player, surprised everyone by capturing third place, proving her talent on the pinball stage. Sophie Gronnevik, with her consistent play, earned a commendable fourth place, closely followed by Laurie Abel, who demonstrated her prowess with an extensive history in IFPA events. Cinthia Guadiana, known for her competitive edge, finished strong in sixth place. Cole Jimenez and Terri Ward, both new faces to the ranking scene, rounded out the top eight, highlighting their potential in future tournaments.
Texas Pinball Power Rankings
The current IFPA Texas Pinball Top 10 Standings showcase the best of the best in the state. Here’s how they stack up:
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Garrett Shahan | Denton | 663.27 |
| 2 | Jack Revnew | The Woodlands | 424.02 |
| 3 | Wesley Johnson | College Station | 328.67 |
| 4 | Clark McCoy | Denton | 315.15 |
| 5 | Gilbert Herrera | San Antonio | 273.02 |
| 6 | Ray Ford | Austin | 262.31 |
| 7 | Lee Balusek | Conroe | 254.97 |
| 8 | Colin MacAlpine | Austin | 251.96 |
| 9 | Keith Shahan | Abilene | 248.18 |
| 10 | Ken Kemp | Collinsville | 237.37 |
Wrapping Up the Fun
A big shoutout to Christina Cheeseman for organizing such a spectacular event at What’s Brewing? Coffee Roasters. The combination of a fantastic venue and top-notch competition made for an unforgettable evening. Thanks to all the players for bringing their passion and skill to the tables. Stay tuned for more pinball excitement, and don’t forget to practice your skills on The Flintstones – you never know when your Yabba Dabba Doo moment might come!