High Stakes at Tucson Indoor Sports Center
On a cool January evening, the Tucson Indoor Sports Center at 1065 W Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ, buzzed with excitement as 16 skilled pinball players gathered for the Tucson Timed Match Play @TISC. Wayne Saeger orchestrated this spectacular event on January 11, 2024, starting at 6:00 PM and spanning just over 3 hours. The clear skies and a temperature of 47°F set a perfect backdrop for the intense competition inside.
Godzilla Showdown: A Round to Remember
In the sixth and final round, players were treated to a riveting match on the Godzilla (Premium) machine by Stern. Derek Jordan, ranked 2592nd in the IFPA, clinched first place, showcasing remarkable skill. He was closely followed by Ben Clement from Marana, AZ, ranked 311th, and Thomas Urban from Portland, OR, ranked 2297th, taking second and third places respectively. Bob Bodman, ranked 9404th, also put up a strong performance, finishing fourth.
Celebrating the Champions
The top players of the tournament were celebrated for their exceptional skill and dedication:
- Ben Clement: Hailing from Marana, AZ, and ranked 311th in the IFPA, Ben led the pack with his incredible performance across 357 IFPA events.
- Mike LaHaie: From Tucson, AZ, and ranked 4610th in the IFPA, Mike demonstrated great skill, with participation in 255 IFPA events.
- Wayne Saeger: The organizer himself, ranked 1365th, showed his expertise on both sides of the event, securing the third spot.
- Andy Nicholls: With an IFPA rank of 3114, Andy showcased his growing prowess, marking his 118th event.
Pinball Extravaganza: A Showcase of Classics and Modern Marvels
This tournament was a pinball enthusiast’s dream, featuring a total of 10 machines, each bringing its unique challenge and history. Highlights included F-14 Tomcat by Williams, a classic from 1987, and the recent hit Godzilla (Premium) by Stern. Fans also enjoyed the vintage charm of Lost World by Bally, released in 1978, and the modern vibes of Metallica (Pro) by Stern from 2013. Ghostbusters (Pro), another Stern creation, Stars from Stern Electronics, Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast, and The Walking Dead (Pro) added to the diverse and engaging lineup.
A Perfect Setting for Pinball Enthusiasts
The Tucson Indoor Sports Center, more than just a venue, provided an ideal atmosphere for the tournament. Known for its excellent indoor hockey facilities, the center also impressed with its casual dining options – the chicken basket was a particular favorite among players and spectators alike.
As the pinball world continues to thrive with such exciting events, we look forward to bringing you more updates from this dynamic and exhilarating realm. Keep flipping, and stay tuned for more pinball adventures!