July 24th was a night filled with laughter, cheers, and the sweet sound of pinball machines at Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery. The MFLadies Pinball Summer Season #3 brought together 22 enthusiastic players for an evening of competitive fun. The tournament spanned five intense rounds, with each player giving their best shot to win the title. The event kicked off at 6:30 PM and lasted a little over two hours, creating a perfect summer evening with a pleasant temperature of 70°F and a few clouds overhead.
A Hidden Gem on Fremont Boulevard
Lynn’s Arcade, located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, Seaside, California, is not just another pinball joint. This arcade is a pinball lover’s paradise, offering a wide variety of machines from classic vintage to modern marvels. The place is known for its well-maintained machines and welcoming atmosphere. The staff, especially Bea, go out of their way to ensure everyone has a fantastic time. With a variety of canned beers and cup holders on every machine, this arcade knows how to keep players refreshed and ready for action. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to have some fun, Lynn’s Arcade promises a great experience.
The Wheel of Fortune Showdown
In the final round, the spotlight was on Wheel of Fortune by Stern, a machine that brought a game show vibe to the competition. The match was tense, with each player trying to spin the big wheel to their advantage. BeeOtch Westrum, Paige Peck, Sam Stanko, and Jaclyn Tingco-Graham faced off in a battle of wits and skill. BeeOtch, a local favorite from Seaside, showed exceptional precision and strategy, taking the first place. Paige Peck followed closely, making the crowd hold their breath with every flip. Sam and Jaclyn also put up a great fight, making this round a highlight of the evening.
A Diverse Pinball Lineup
With 40 fantastic machines in the lineup, the tournament offered a dazzling variety. Here’s a quick rundown of some fan favorites:
- Rick and Morty (SE) by Spooky Pinball: Released in December 2019, this machine brings the chaotic adventures of the beloved animated duo to life, featuring voice acting from the show’s cast and a wealth of interactive features.
- The Walking Dead (Pro) by Stern: From October 2014, this machine captures the eerie atmosphere of the hit TV series, with unique modes and an immersive playfield design.
- Disney TRON: Legacy by Stern: Released in May 2011, this pinball machine takes players on a digital journey through the Grid, complete with Daft Punk’s electrifying soundtrack.
- Jurassic Park (Premium) by Stern: October 2019 brought this dino-packed adventure, where players must rescue park staff and outwit dinosaurs.
- Old Chicago by Bally: A classic from April 1976, this machine’s vintage charm and challenging playfield layout make it a timeless favorite.
- Godzilla (Premium) by Stern: Released in September 2021, this machine lets players become the legendary kaiju, smashing cities and battling monsters.
Victorious Players and Their Journey
In a field of 22 fierce competitors, only the best could rise to the occasion. The tournament saw a mix of seasoned players and fresh faces, each bringing their A-game. Here’s a closer look at the top finishers:
- Gretchen Lou, IFPA Unranked
Despite being unranked, Gretchen Lou showcased incredible skill and determination, proving that ranking isn’t everything. Her unyielding focus and consistent play earned her the top spot. - Terrie White, IFPA Unranked
Another unranked player, Terrie White, displayed impressive strategic play throughout the night. With sharp reflexes and a keen understanding of the game, Terrie secured a well-deserved second place. - Paige Peck, IFPA rank 4172
As a familiar face in the pinball scene, Paige Peck leveraged her experience and deep knowledge of the game. With 48 IFPA events under her belt, Paige’s strong showing earned her a commendable third place. - BeeOtch Westrum, IFPA rank 2917
A seasoned competitor with 144 IFPA events, BeeOtch Westrum brought her hometown pride to the table. Her impressive skills and strategic thinking led her to secure fourth place, rounding out the top performers of the night.
These players faced tough competition, navigating through challenging rounds and formidable opponents. Their performances were a testament to the depth of talent and passion within the pinball community.
California IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arvid Flygare | Lund | 881.68 |
| 2 | Tim Hansen | Sunnyvale | 862.24 |
| 3 | Escher Lefkoff | 803.99 | |
| 4 | Jason Zahler | 778.32 | |
| 5 | Daniele Celestino Acciari | Rocca di Papa | 713.78 |
| 6 | Nic Stein | Davis | 681.23 |
| 7 | Viggo Löwgren | Furulund | 667.91 |
| 8 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 623.59 |
| 9 | Zach McCarthy | Conifer | 617.33 |
| 10 | Luke Nahorniak | Lonsdale | 554.41 |
Wrapping Up an Unforgettable Night
The MFLadies Pinball Summer Season #3 was a resounding success, thanks to the impeccable organization by Cary Carmichael and the fantastic location at Lynn’s Arcade. The event brought together a community of passionate players, each showcasing their skills and love for the game. As we say goodbye to another thrilling tournament, let’s not forget the amazing experiences and friendly competition. Until next time, keep flipping those flippers and maybe take a stroll down to the nearby Seaside Beach for some post-tournament relaxation. Don’t miss out on future pinball tournament news and highlights!