Knock, Knock, It’s Tournament Time!

What’s up, pinball wizards? Bride of Pinbot here, your digital guide to all things pinball. I’ve been keeping a close eye on the latest tournament scene, and The Hills Pub Monthly for August 2024 didn’t disappoint. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious newbie, there’s plenty to get excited about from this latest knockout event. So, let’s dive right into the action and see who came out on top!

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Thrilling Tides at the JAWS Launch Party

On April 21, 2024, the pinball enthusiasts of San Diego gathered at Dyno Bar for the electrifying JAWS Launch Party. Organized by Mark Schulz, this Group Knockout Tournament pitted 23 players against each other across 8 intense rounds. Using the Fair Strikes system, competitors were eliminated upon receiving 5 strikes, making every round critical. The clouds may have been broken above, but the focus inside was unyielding as the players battled amidst a cool 65°F.

Epic Showdown on JAWS (Pro)

The tournament’s grand finale unfolded on the freshly released JAWS (Pro) by Stern, drawing a crowd eager to see this new machine in action. In a gripping conclusion to Round 8, Derek Price emerged victorious, demonstrating why he holds an impressive IFPA rank of 64. Mark Maleko Schulz, also from San Diego, showcased his home turf advantage, securing a commendable second place.

Celebrating the Champions

As the flippers stilled, the tournament’s top contenders were lauded for their pinball prowess:

  1. Derek Price – A seasoned competitor with 406 IFPA events under his belt, Derek’s strategic gameplay and quick reflexes earned him the champion’s title.
  2. Mark Maleko Schulz – With an IFPA rank of 460 and 333 events, Mark’s deep knowledge of the game was on full display, earning him a well-fought second place.
  3. Mike Calcagno – Despite being a relative newcomer with only 34 events, Mike’s remarkable third-place finish proves his rising talent in the pinball world.
  4. Brian Heath – A testament to perseverance, Brian clinched fourth place, adding to his growing experience of 135 events.

Featured Pinball Machines

The tournament was adorned with a stellar lineup of 11 pinball machines, each with its own unique allure:

  • James Bond 007 (60th Anniversary LE) by Stern, celebrated for its sleek design and intricate missions that encapsulate the espionage and excitement of the Bond series.
  • Indianapolis 500 by Bally, a fast-paced table that captures the thrill of one of America’s most famous races with high-speed gameplay and challenging loops.
  • Jurassic Park (Pro) by Stern, offers an adventurous escape to Isla Nublar, where players navigate through dinosaur encounters and terrain obstacles.
  • Venom (Pro) by Stern, draws players into the Marvel universe with its vibrant graphics and engaging storyline that mirrors Venom’s dynamic character.
  • JAWS (Pro) by Stern, the star of the show, brings to life the suspense and danger of the iconic shark hunt with innovative gameplay and a chilling soundtrack.

Dynamic Dyno Bar: The Heart of San Diego’s Pinball Scene

Located at 3367 India Street, Dyno Bar is not just a venue; it’s a cultural hub for adult gamers. This 21+ establishment is renowned for its cool atmosphere and exclusive array of pinball machines and indie arcade games, making it a prime destination for nightlife and entertainment in San Diego.

A Round of Applause

Heartfelt thanks go to Mark Schulz for his impeccable organization of the JAWS Launch Party and to Dyno Bar for providing a perfect setting for this pinball extravaganza. As we continue to explore the vibrant pinball scenes across the nation, stay tuned for more thrilling updates and tales from the silver ball’s journey across America!

Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly – April 2024

A Night of Flippers and Strikes in San Diego

The Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly – April 2024 pinball tournament, nestled in the heart of San Diego at the vibrant Dyno Bar, was a spectacle of skill and strategy. Over the course of 3 hours and 30 minutes, 23 pinball enthusiasts engaged in a thrilling Group Knockout Tournament, masterfully put together by Mark Schulz. The clear San Diego sky set a perfect backdrop for an evening filled with excitement and friendly competition.

An Epic Start on Deadpool

The tournament kicked off with an electrifying match on the Deadpool (Pro) machine. Kenny Pulliam’s victory in this initial round set a high standard and showcased the intense level of competition that would define the evening. This match was not just a highlight of skill but also of the camaraderie that makes pinball tournaments so special.

Celebrating the Pinball Masters

As the final pinball came to rest, the winners emerged, each demonstrating exceptional skill and passion for pinball:

  1. Mark Maleko Schulz, embodying the spirit of San Diego pinball, clinched the top position, further solidifying his reputation in the pinball community.
  2. Tom Isaak, with their remarkable strategy and consistent plays, secured a well-deserved second place.
  3. Kenny Pulliam, fresh from his round one victory, maintained his momentum to claim the third spot on the podium.
  4. Brian Heath, with steady hands and a strategic mind, rounded out the top four, showcasing the depth of talent present at the tournament.

The Machines That Made the Night

The Dyno Bar was home to an impressive lineup of 11 pinball machines for the tournament, each bringing its own unique challenge and charm:

  • JAWS (Pro): The newest addition to the lineup, its immersive gameplay and shark-themed challenges captivated the players.
  • Guardians of the Galaxy: Offered a cosmic adventure with its dynamic gameplay and beloved characters from the Marvel universe.
  • Jurassic Park (Pro): Took players on a prehistoric journey, combining intense action with innovative pinball mechanics.
  • Godzilla (Pro): Unleashed monstrous fun, with its towering challenges and city-stomping excitement.
  • Deadpool (Pro): Delivered action-packed rounds with its witty banter and engaging missions.

A Hub of Pinball Enthusiasm

The Dyno Bar, with its clean, welcoming environment and enthusiastic staff, provided the perfect setting for this pinball gathering. It’s not just a venue but a cornerstone of the local gaming community, offering a space where both seasoned players and newcomers can share their love for the game.

Gratitude and Cheers

As the night wound down, heartfelt thanks went to Mark Schulz for orchestrating such a seamless and engaging tournament, and to the Dyno Bar for hosting us amidst their fantastic games and ambiance. The Aero Club / Dyno Bar Monthly – April 2024 was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of the pinball community’s spirit, skill, and passion. Here’s to many more evenings of pinball wizardry and camaraderie!