TOP 3 BEST TIMES CSWC OLIVA JAPAN 2026

Japan hosted the second-ever CSWC qualifier and proved they are the new rising star in the CSWC world, both in organization and results. Photos by Yuji Amano This year’s event was held in Kyoto at SETSUGEKKA+SALON, a venue with over 40 years of history located on Sanjo-dori, one of the city's most popular streets. There were 20 participants this year; nine were returning competitors, and three were women. Local sponsors—including MURAKI (Cuervo y Sobrinos Japan) and S.T. Dupo

One of the top competitors in the world has confirmed he’s going for another USA Championship title! Drew Emch after his first USA National Champion title ​Drew Emch, the USA Champion of 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025, has confirmed his return to defend his title for a fifth consecutive year, following uncertainty regarding his participation in the 2026 USA CSWC Oliva season. If he succeeds, he will break the record currently held by one of the greatest names in CSWC history, Dar

TOP 3 BEST TIMES CSWC OLIVA AUSTRIA 2026

His name will undoubtedly be recorded as one of the most iconic in the history of the CSWC. CSWC Austria, led by the incredible Mirko Ivanić—an official CSWC judge—brought a variety of activities to slow smokers across the country. With events at two locations, including one in the beautiful city of Vienna, competitors had the chance to fight for the best time in Austria. Austria has become one of the long-standing countries helping to grow the CSWC culture. Both newcomers an

The Humidor in Granada Hills shows the beauty of CSWC excitement in the very first round. CSWC started its season in the United States at "The Humidor," a beautiful cigar lounge and private club located in Granada Hills, California. As the competition was held there for the first time, it was also the first time the competitors faced such an event. Marko Bilić, the founder, and Michael McMkennan were there to provide the inaugural CSWC experience. Mani and Kevin are listening

Pipe World and Texas now have their first champion. The event was a great success, and Pipe World proved to be a perfect venue for the race, filled with amazing people. CSWC arrived at Pipe World for the first time in the beautiful city of Austin, Texas. From the moment one steps into the Pipe World lounge, it is clear that this place is something special. Operating for over 40 years and founded by Mr. Kyle Haass, the lounge offers more than just an amazing atmosphere; it is

Montenegro witnessed its closest championship yet as a first-time competitor pushed the reigning field to the limit before Khanpari Nadirova became the country's first female CSWC champion. The fourth edition of the CSWC by Oliva Cigars Montenegro took place at Casa De Puros in Podgorica, owned by Aleksandar Đuretić and Milica Popović. Hosted at their cigar lounge on 18. Jula Street, this year's championship - for what would become the most competitive Montenegrin qualifier

TOP 3 BEST TIMES CSWC OLIVA MONTENEGRO 2026

An amazing qualifier took place at the Apiary Private Club, setting the best time in the USA so far. CSWC is heating up in the USA. After a few qualifiers already took place, the event in Omaha at the beautiful private club Apiary delivered the best time so far in the country. It was great to see Mr. Anthony Goins, one of the co-owners of Apiary, in such high spirits, leading the excitement alongside CSWC founder Marko Bilic, who is on a USA tour with one of the most active C

​The 2026 season has produced intriguing results that raise significant questions, particularly regarding some of the biggest names in the sport's history. Shagai and Hauke during last moments of Grand Final 2018 Although these established competitors topped their respective national qualifiers, their winning times were significantly lower than usual. This performance dip has sparked widespread speculation. For instance, Hauke Walter, a three-time world champion from Germany