NEWS
GREAT SLOW SMOKING RACES AT CYPRUS, REUNION ISLAND, INDIA AND N. MACEDONIA
With each competition, the CSWC not only celebrates the skill and dedication of its participants but also strengthens the bonds within the global cigar community
Champion of cyprus during interview after he won historical title for CSWC cyprus
CSWC Cyprus: A Historic First for the Island's Cigar Community
In Cyprus, the CSWC made its highly anticipated debut, marking a significant milestone for the island's cigar community. Thanks to the dedication of Christos Philotheou, the official CSWC judge and organizer, and Constantinos Theodorou, the owner of Ligero Cigar Shop and Lounge, the event was a resounding success. Held at Ligero Cigar Shop, known for its impressive walk-in humidor, the competition introduced the CSWC format to Cyprus with pre-trainings and gatherings that prepared participants for the challenge.
Despite being the first CSWC event on the island, the competition was fiercely contested. Vadims Bocarovs emerged victorious, securing the win despite incurring three penalty minutes. Panayiotis Fotiades and Marios Hadjimarkou followed closely behind, finishing in second and third place, respectively. The success of the event has set a high standard for future competitions in Cyprus, with the island's cigar community eagerly anticipating more thrilling events in the years to come.
The best ones of historical, first ever CSWC Reunion Island with Jerome Monetti (left)Judge and organiser of CSWC in Reunion Island
CSWC Reunion Island: A Historic Event in the Heart of the Indian Ocean
Reunion Island, a remote paradise in the Indian Ocean, played host to its first-ever CSWC event, organized by Sabrina and Jerome Monetti from Corita Cigars. The competition brought together participants eager to experience the CSWC for the first time, and despite being newcomers, they delivered impressive performances.
Damien Meullemiestre emerged as the winner, with Cyrille Sogue and Philippe Vallee securing second and third places, respectively. The event's success has inspired the organizers to take Reunion Island's presence to the next level by representing the island at the CSWC Grand Final for the first time.
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Isa Barao and Raahuul Kapoor fantastic people and organisers of CSWC India
Aakanksha Vashist, one of the few Woman champions this season
AAKANKSHA VASHIST: New Indian CSWC Champion
India's CSWC qualifier returned to Delhi this year, with the India Cigar Club hosting the country's third-ever competition at the restaurant Miss Pinto. The event saw a new national champion crowned—Aakanksha Vashist—who not only won but also shattered the previous Indian record by 44 minutes. Her final time of 1 hour, 59 minutes, and 2 seconds was just shy of the coveted two-hour mark, establishing her as a serious contender on the international stage.
Aakanksha's victory was a testament to her grace, passion, and focus, as she described the experience as a personal journey and a joyful adventure. The top three competitors in the event all surpassed the previous record, setting a new standard for slow smoking in India.
Ogne Ljuben trilled to win his first CSWC national Champion title
CSWC North Macedonia: A Legendary Competition Filled with Excitement
North Macedonia's CSWC event has long been a staple in the world of competitive cigar smoking, with a legacy spanning more than a decade. This year's competition lived up to its storied reputation, delivering excitement and fierce rivalry among both seasoned veterans and newcomers.
Under the watchful eye of main judge Gabriel Stibel, the competitors embarked on a slow and intense race that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. Newcomer Ognen Ljuben claimed the top spot, outlasting the competition and securing his place in CSWC history. Close behind was CSWC stalwart Toni Trajkovski, who took second place with characteristic skill. The battle for third place was particularly intense, with Kliment Srbinoski edging out his competitors in a dramatic finish.
The success of this year's event was also due to the efforts of organizers Marko Konstadinovski and Marko Trendafilov, who, alongside Gabriel Stibel, ensured that the competition remained a celebration of skill, camaraderie, and the timeless art of slow smoking.