When it comes to thrilling pinball action, the Finals for Silverball Sunday 7/7 – Wick Launch did not disappoint. Held on a scorching evening at Atomic Age Modern, six of the finest pinball wizards gathered to compete in a battle of skill, precision, and nerves. The tournament, organized by the ever-enthusiastic Mark Farina Jr, spanned over five and a half hours, offering fans an electrifying spectacle under a clear 110°F Arizona sky. For more details on the event, check out their website here.
Exploring Atomic Age Modern
Located at 140 W Main, Mesa, AZ 85201, Atomic Age Modern is more than just pinball tournaments; it’s a treasure trove of vintage charm. With a clear sky and a scorching temperature of 110°F, the venue’s cool, retro ambiance provided a delightful contrast. The place is renowned for its eclectic collection of vintage items and friendly, engaging owners who make every visit a memorable experience. Curious to see what makes this place special? Visit their website at Atomic Age Modern.
A Look Back: Lighting the Candle
Before we dive into the finals, let’s take a moment to revisit the previous rounds covered in our article, Light the Candle on the Wick Launch at Atomic Age Modern. The semi-finals set the stage for the nail-biting conclusion we witnessed in the finals.
Spotlight on the Machines
Two stellar machines took center stage for this tournament, with Stern’s John Wick (Pro) being the highlight. Released in May 2024, this game captivates with its intense gameplay, reflecting the high-octane action of the John Wick franchise. The sleek design, coupled with engaging features like the “Continental Hotel” multiball and “Baba Yaga” mini-playfield, makes it a crowd favorite.
Alongside it was the classic Strikes and Spares by Bally, a gem from June 1978. This machine, known for its straightforward yet addictive gameplay, features a bowling theme that delights players with its nostalgic charm and smooth playfield.
The Champions Rise: Tournament Highlights
The finals saw fierce competition, but in the end, the top players emerged victorious after a gripping last game on the John Wick (Pro) machine. Let’s take a moment to celebrate the champions:
- John Finnegan – Hailing from Tucson, John clinched the top spot with his remarkable skill. Ranked 15th in the state and 594th in the IFPA, John has an impressive 532 IFPA events under his belt, showcasing his dedication to the sport.
- Conrad Betti – From Phoenix, Conrad’s stellar performance earned him second place. With a state rank of 88th and an IFPA rank of 477, Conrad has competed in 185 IFPA events, proving his mettle.
- Jason Barre – A local hero from Mesa, Jason secured third place. Ranked 4th in the state and 241st in the IFPA, Jason’s extensive experience in 452 IFPA events made him a formidable competitor.
- John Magyar – Another top contender from Arizona, John finished fourth. With a state rank of 10th and an IFPA rank of 259, John’s 255 IFPA events highlight his passion and skill in pinball.
IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Roland Nadeau | 750.49 | |
| 2 | Mark Pearson | Phoenix | 748.1 |
| 3 | John Shopple | Mesa | 684.02 |
| 4 | Jason Barre | Mesa | 321.5 |
| 5 | Greg Drewes | Mesa | 314.79 |
| 6 | Nate Tornero | 279.03 | |
| 7 | Ben Clement | Marana | 255.99 |
| 8 | Andrew Roesch | 254.85 | |
| 9 | Cody Winant | Tempe | 253.48 |
| 10 | John Magyar | Gilbert | 252.93 |
Snuffing the Wick Launch Finals
The Silverball Sunday finals at Wick Launch were a smashing success, thanks to the efforts of Mark Farina Jr. and the welcoming environment at Atomic Age Modern. Congratulations to John Finnegan for his outstanding victory! Stay tuned for more exciting pinball updates and stories as we continue to follow the thrilling world of competitive pinball.