The Tik Tok’s Womxn Group Knockout September tournament kicked off on September 14, 2024, in a cozy yet competitive atmosphere. Despite the moderate rain outside, pinball enthusiasts gathered at Tik Tok’s Workshop for an exciting showdown. Eight players competed in this knockout format, where it only took three strikes to get eliminated, and each round was a battle to avoid that fate. With eight intense rounds over two hours, the players pushed through, showing off their skills on some seriously iconic machines.
Tik Tok’s Workshop: A Pinball Paradise with a Twist
Tik Tok’s Workshop, located at 1216 Sylvan Way in Bremerton, WA, has become a go-to spot for pinball fans. This local gem doesn’t just offer pinball; it serves up a full experience with drinks, snacks, and, for those feeling bold, a bit of karaoke on Saturday nights. The atmosphere is lively, with a menu that includes some adventurous drink options like the Dirty and Dry, which was a hit with one reviewer. For pinball players, it’s a dream come true, with a variety of machines ranging from nostalgic classics to modern blockbusters. The vibe at Tik Tok’s blends fun and competition perfectly, making it an ideal location for a rainy-day tournament.
A Juicy Victory on Whoa Nellie!
Round 3 was a wild ride, with Whoa Nellie! Big Juicy Melons taking center stage. This unique machine, released by Stern in 2015, combines vintage pinball aesthetics with modern-day mechanics. It’s a game that looks simple, but don’t be fooled—it packs a punch with its tight shots and punishing drain lanes.
The match started fast, with Rachel Kahalekulu and Alexxus Garcia facing an uphill battle against Astrid Morrison and Kathleen Rush. Astrid’s precise flips helped her keep control, scoring massive points from the Melon Madness mode, where hitting the spinners adds up quick. Kathleen, a Bremerton local, stayed close behind, but Astrid sealed the victory with a perfectly timed melon crate bash, adding a cool 100,000 points to her score and solidifying her 1st place finish. Kathleen took 2nd, while Alexxus and Rachel had to fight off elimination. It was a fantastic display of skill and nerves under pressure, with Astrid proving why she’s ranked in the top 250 players statewide.
Pinball Machines: Icons and Fan Favorites
The Tik Tok tournament featured an impressive lineup of 14 machines, each with its own flair and personality. Here’s a deeper look at five standouts that kept players on their toes:
Star Trek: The Next Generation (1993)
This Williams classic lets players command the USS Enterprise, hitting shots to trigger different missions inspired by the iconic show. The game features fast-paced flow with ramps that feel like they teleport you across the galaxy. Players loved the interactive cannons and deep rule set, which kept them fully immersed in the Star Trek universe.
Devil’s Dare (1982)
A throwback to the early ’80s, Gottlieb’s Devil’s Dare is all about speed and precision. The game’s open playfield and fast ball movement mean players need lightning-quick reflexes. Its multiball feature is tough to trigger, but once unleashed, it’s a true test of pinball prowess.
Grand Prix (1976)
This Williams classic offers a blend of vintage charm and challenging gameplay. Players battle against the ticking clock, aiming to complete laps and advance positions. Its pop bumpers and fast spinners bring back the nostalgic feel of 1970s pinball while keeping the competition fierce.
The Mandalorian (Premium) (2021)
Stern’s Mandalorian machine offers a newer experience with all the high-tech wizardry you’d expect. With a stunning LCD screen and cinematic sound, this game immerses you in Din Djarin’s universe. The Grogu mini-playfield, where you control Baby Yoda, adds a unique twist, making it a favorite at the tournament.
AC/DC (Premium Vault Edition) (2017)
Rock ‘n’ roll and pinball collide in this explosive machine. The AC/DC game is all about hitting shots in time with classic hits like “Back in Black” and “Highway to Hell.” The sound and light show are an experience on their own, and the fast, adrenaline-fueled gameplay kept players cranking up the score.
Tournament Champions: Rising Stars and Pinball Veterans
After a hard-fought tournament, Kate Giuggio claimed the top spot, proving that she’s not just a contender but a force to be reckoned with. Ranked 278th in Washington and 5412th nationally, Kate’s performance was a masterclass in precision and control, especially considering her experience across 148 IFPA events. Coming in 2nd, Alexxus Garcia showed impressive growth, moving up the ranks quickly despite her limited tournament appearances—this was only her 5th IFPA event! Meanwhile, Colleen Godwin took 3rd place, using her experience from 169 IFPA events to edge out the competition, while Kathleen Rush rounded out the top four, solidifying her place as a strong competitor in her local scene with her 131 total events under her belt.
Washington IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings
| Rank | Player Name | City | Wppr Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lonnie Langford | Seattle | 865.01 |
| 2 | Conrad Rustad | Bremerton | 676.04 |
| 3 | Leslie Ruckman | Seattle | 654.08 |
| 4 | Dave Stewart | Carnation | 546.13 |
| 5 | Jarrett Gaddy | Seattle | 541.02 |
| 6 | Germain Mariolle | Redmond | 502.57 |
| 7 | Richie Terry | Seattle | 490.57 |
| 8 | Sean Irby | Seattle | 487.81 |
| 9 | John Robinson WA | Bothell | 487.02 |
| 10 | Escher Lefkoff | 471.67 |
Looking Ahead to More Pinball Action!
Congratulations to all the participants, especially Kate Giuggio, for taking home the win in this knockout event! A huge thanks to Richard Godwin for organizing the event and to Tik Tok’s Workshop for hosting this memorable tournament. With such a great lineup of games and talent, it’s no wonder the competition was fierce. Stay tuned for more thrilling pinball stories and tournament updates—there’s always another game just around the corner!