On July 27, 2024, pinball enthusiasts gathered at West County Lanes for a special event: Jennys Cancer Benefit. The tournament, organized by the dedicated Dean Huber, brought together 13 talented players for a thrilling day of competition. Despite a light drizzle outside, the atmosphere inside was electric as players battled it out across seven rounds, each consisting of a single game. The top four then advanced to the finals, where they faced off in a tense three-game showdown. The event lasted four and a half hours, with plenty of exciting moments to keep everyone on their toes.
A Friendly and Family-Oriented Venue
West County Lanes, located at 15727 Manchester Rd, Ellisville, MO, proved to be an excellent host for the tournament. This well-loved venue is renowned for its friendly staff and family-friendly atmosphere. Whether it’s your first time bowling or you’re a seasoned pro, the accommodating team ensures a great experience. The food is always hot and fresh, and the arcade offers a fun diversion. Plus, the location has a collection of pinball machines that attract enthusiasts from all around. It’s the perfect spot for a community-focused event like this, combining the joy of pinball with a welcoming environment.
The Munsters Showdown: A Marathon Match
The longest game of the tournament took place in Round 1 on The Munsters (LE) by Stern, a pinball machine that stands out with its classic TV show theme and engaging modes. The game, lasting an impressive 95 minutes, was a true test of endurance and skill. Players battled through various modes like “Herman’s Hurry-Ups” and “Dragula Racing,” showing off their mastery of the table. In a nail-biting finish, Steve Rolsing took first place, narrowly edging out Dean Huber, with Steve Smith and Haley Huber rounding out the top four. It was a thrilling match that set the tone for the rest of the tournament.
Pinball Machines in the Spotlight
The tournament featured a fantastic lineup of pinball machines, offering a diverse range of themes and gameplay experiences. Among the highlights was James Bond 007 (LE) by Stern, a sleek machine that captured the suave and action-packed essence of the famous spy. Another standout was JAWS (Pro), also by Stern, which brought the thrilling tension of the classic film to life with its intense gameplay and challenging modes.
For fans of rock music, Rush (LE) provided a high-energy experience, complete with iconic tracks and unique features. And let’s not forget Foo Fighters (LE), another music-themed machine that delivered fast-paced action and an immersive experience. Each game added its own flavor to the tournament, keeping both players and spectators engaged throughout the event.
Congratulations to the Champions!
After a day filled with intense competition, the final results were in. The champions of the Jennys Cancer Benefit tournament were:
- Steve Rolsing – Hailing from St. Louis and ranked 3rd in the state, Steve’s consistent performance and extensive experience with 361 IFPA events made it the player to beat. Its final victory on The Munsters (LE) showcased a deep understanding of the game’s nuances.
- Steve Smith – A solid player from Illinois, Steve’s 121 IFPA events experience paid off, earning him a well-deserved second place.
- Dean Huber – As the event’s organizer and a seasoned player with 76 IFPA events under his belt, Dean’s skills were on full display, securing a commendable third place.
- Haley Huber – With a state rank of 14th and 98 IFPA events, Haley put up a strong fight, showing impressive skill and determination.
Missouri IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carleton Plourde | St. Louis | 240.01 |
| 2 | John Miller MO | St. Louis | 218.21 |
| 3 | Steve Rolsing | St. Louis | 192.44 |
| 4 | Adam McKinnie | Columbia | 128.83 |
| 5 | Brennan Sullivan | St. Louis | 112.29 |
| 6 | Mike Howard | St. Louis | 110.13 |
| 7 | Dan Sexauer | St. Louis | 106.35 |
| 8 | Steve Hill MO | Kansas City | 84.09 |
| 9 | Michael LaFrieda | 81.94 | |
| 10 | Kendell Holder | St. Louis | 76.96 |
Wrapping Up a Fantastic Event
The Jennys Cancer Benefit tournament at West County Lanes was a resounding success. Dean Huber deserves a special shoutout for organizing such a well-run event. The location provided the perfect backdrop for a day of pinball action, with its friendly atmosphere and excellent facilities. A big thank you to everyone who participated and supported the event. We wish Jenny all the best and hope to see everyone at future tournaments. Stay tuned for more pinball news and highlights!