FINNISH SLOW SMOKING CHAMPIONSHIP SHOWCASES SKILL, PATIENCE, AND DETERMINATION
On June 8, Finland's annual Slow Smoking Competition was held in the magnificent surroundings of Kirjaclub, widely regarded as one of the most elegant cigar clubs in Northern Europe.
The event was organized by the club's President, Mr. Lasse Öhman, who also served as Chief Judge. This year's championship attracted 20 dedicated cigar aficionados from across Finland, all competing to demonstrate the patience, precision, and composure required in the art of slow smoking.
Among the pre-event favourites was Mr. Harri Kalliokoski, whose performances in both national and international competitions over recent years had established him as one of Finland's strongest competitors. However, the championship also featured an exciting rising talent. One of the youngest participants, Mr. Daniel Koivisto, had displayed remarkable promise during rehearsal competitions throughout the previous autumn and spring. Although a newcomer to the national championship, he had already earned a reputation for his patience, calm approach, and determined fighting spirit.
As the competition unfolded, it became a captivating contest between experience and youthful determination. After 1 hour, 28 minutes, and 53 seconds, Mr. Koivisto chose to end his smoke rather than risk the cigar band catching fire—a decision reflecting both discipline and sound judgment. Mr. Kalliokoski, meanwhile, maintained his composure and successfully completed his smoke with a time of 1 hour, 35 minutes, and 31 seconds, securing victory.
"The competition cigar was not the easiest to manage, but overall we enjoyed a wonderful championship," said Chief Judge Lasse Öhman.
The Finnish qualification for CSWC once again demonstrated the unique blend of skill, patience, and sportsmanship that defines this distinguished tradition, while also highlighting the emergence of a promising new generation of competitors.