Pinball Players Gather in Calgary to Support Local Charity

Approximately 60 pinball enthusiasts gathered in Calgary on March 3, 2024, to participate in a charity event benefiting the United Way of Calgary. Hosted by Krywolt Insurance Brokers and Nitro Pinball Alberta, the tournament took place at Hidden Spot Calgary in the northeast part of the city. Participants faced off on a collection of 20 pinball machines, with models ranging from the 1960s to the latest releases from 2025.

Event organizer and participant Darren Krywolt expressed his excitement about the occasion, emphasizing its fun and community-focused nature. “I can’t think of a more fun way to raise money and support the community,” Krywolt stated. He noted that many of the players were among the best in Canada, and possibly even the world, highlighting the competitive spirit of the event.

A key feature of the tournament was a fundraising raffle, which included a brand new pinball machine valued at $11,000. Krywolt mentioned that while the winner received the machine, the event was primarily about enjoyment and community bonding. “It really is about the fun and camaraderie,” he added.

The tournament attracted considerable interest, selling out within just seven days of its announcement. Krywolt expressed hopes of expanding the event in 2026, aiming to raise over $20,000 for the United Way.

Participants like McKenna Hodgson echoed Krywolt’s sentiments, describing the atmosphere as positive and engaging. “It’s really cool. The vibes are really good. It’s just a really fun event all around,” Hodgson remarked.

Despite the winter weather, Krywolt remained optimistic, stating, “It’s a gorgeous day for pinball!” The event not only showcased the passion for pinball but also underscored the community’s commitment to supporting local charitable initiatives. With the success of this year’s tournament, organizers look forward to building on this foundation in the future.