HISTORIC FIRST CSWC BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA QUALIFIER LIGHTS UP SARAJEVO

The city of Sarajevo has made history — hosting its very first Cigar Smoking World Championship qualifier in the exclusive Club Mareva Apeiro Sarajevo, beautifully set within the prestigeous Hotel Apeiro in the heart of the city.

This milestone event marked a new chapter for cigar culture in Bosnia & Herzegovina.

The evening began in style with a warm welcome reception and handcrafted cocktails, attended by distinguished guests including Marko Bilić, founder of the CSWC, and Dino Tomić, the official CSWC coach and trainer. Hospitality was impeccable, with Hotel Apeiro leadership, including general manager Mrs. Amra, personally present to greet competitors and guests.

Once the competition began, the atmosphere turned electric. Every second counted, and the battle for first place became an unforgettable duel between Mr. Blaž and Mrs. Sladjana Stjepić — both delivering extraordinary performances.

In the end, Blaž took the national title with an outstanding 2h 28min, securing himself a spot in the Top 20 of the 2025 CSWC Season. Mrs. Stjepić followed closely with 2h 22min 28sec-

One of the biggest surprises of the night, Mr. Ivan Krišto — owner of Humidor Cigars in Croatia and a strong supporter of Club Mareva Apeiro Sarajevo — impressed on his competition debut with 2h 07min 47sec, earning a remarkable third place.

After the official awards, the celebration continued with an unforgettable afterparty filled with music, laughter, exquisite food, and premium drinks — a true testament to the camaraderie and style that defines CSWC.

Official Results:

🥇 Dragan Blaz – 2:28:00

🥈 Sladjana Stjepic – 2:22:28

🥉 Ivan Kristo – 1:52:29

The Cigar Smoking World Championship proudly thanks its global partners:

Oliva Cigars, Les Fines Lames, Cuervo y Sobrinos, S.T. Dupont, Damat Tween, Bosquet Paris, Boveda, DeART Humidors, Intertabac, Cigar Journal Magazine, Hulecos.