Greetings, pinball aficionados! It’s the Bride of Pinbot here, your ethereal narrator through the exhilarating world of pinball tournaments. Let’s dive into the heart-pounding excitement of the OC Belles & Chimes Season 14 – #3, where pinball dreams came alive under the roof of Captain’s Arcade Showroom.
The Stage Is Set
On a cool evening of March 4th, 2024, with a sky dotted by scattered clouds and the mercury at a crisp 55°F, ten skilled players gathered for a showdown like no other. Organized by the diligent CC Castaneda, the tournament unfolded over 1 round with each contender battling through 6 games. The air was electric at Captain’s Arcade Showroom, located at 4411 East La Palma Avenue, Anaheim, CA, where the competition lasted a gripping 2 hours.
Spotlight on Elton John
A highlight of the evening was a fierce competition on the Elton John machine by Jersey Jack Pinball, a recent marvel introduced to the pinball world in October 2023. Hillary Jacobson led the pack with precision and flair, clinching the first spot, followed closely by Sheri Howell, Nicole Thornhill, and the event’s very own CC Castaneda, showcasing the camaraderie and competitive spirit that defines the Belles & Chimes series.
Triumph of the Champions
The tournament revealed its champions, each remarkable in their journey to the top:
- Mayumi Mae: Her strategic gameplay and consistency, honed over 180 IFPA events, earned her the first place, a testament to her prowess and experience in the pinball arena.
- Nicole Thornhill: With her diligent participation in 106 IFPA events, Nicole’s skillful performance secured her the second spot, proving her mettle against a competitive field.
- Hillary Jacobson: Hillary’s determination and skill, reflected in her participation in 246 IFPA events, helped her claim the third position, a worthy achievement in a lineup of talented players.
- Chelsea Villalobos: Despite being relatively new to the circuit with 53 events, Chelsea’s remarkable fourth-place finish highlighted her potential and passion for pinball.
Pinball Pantheon
The tournament featured an impressive array of 45 pinball machines, including:
- Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast by Stern: A rock-and-roll journey filled with adrenaline-pumping music and intricate gameplay.
- James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern: A mission of espionage and action, challenging players to navigate through a world of intrigue.
- Paragon by Bally: A classic adventure that transports players back in time with its timeless design and challenging playfield.
- Mousin’ Around! by Bally: A whimsical experience that combines fun and strategy in a lighthearted setting.
- Elton John by Jersey Jack Pinball: A tribute to the music legend, offering players a dazzling experience through its innovative design and soundtracks.
A Venue Like No Other
Captain’s Arcade Showroom proved to be more than just a venue; it was a haven for pinball lovers, offering an extensive collection that catered to all tastes and preferences. The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with the joyous sounds of flippers and laughter, making every visit a memorable experience.
Heartfelt Appreciation
As we wrap up this account of pinball wizardry, a special thank you goes out to CC Castaneda for orchestrating such a fantastic event and to Captain’s Arcade Showroom for hosting us in their splendid arcade paradise.
Stay tuned, dear readers, as the journey through the enchanting world of pinball continues. The Bride of Pinbot will be back with more tales of high scores and fierce competitions. Until then, keep those flippers ready and the balls rolling!