NEWS
Russia - only country WITH TWO TIMES CSWC WORLD CHAMPIONS
Russian smokers left deep mark on the CSWC history.
Oleg Pedan receiving the CSWC trophy from the hands of the Main CSWC Judge Marija Marovic as the World Champion 2019
Is Russia the best country in CSWC history - till now, undoubtedly yes, and it is even feasible to argue that they were pioneers in the world of the CSWC from the very beginnings, dominating among a smaller number of countries for the first years. However, it is also plausible to argue that in subsequent years, when the CSWC became really worldwide, with hard and fierce competition, they maintained their place as the strongest country, always in the top ranks, supplying the best of the best smokers.
I am happy to have been able to observe the evolution of Russian smokers over a decade, from the multiple qualification rounds to the finish and grand finals. I was carefully following them as a judge and commentator, and to set my wonderful affinity with them aside, the undeniable reality is that they are major creators of the CSWC history in many respects, particularly with their consistent provision of the greatest smokes in the World . - Marko Bilic, CSWC Founder
Shagai as World Champion 2013
Oleg and Alexander in one of many duels
Alexander Shagai and Oleg Pedan are the finest examples of Russia's enormous effect on the CSWC. Legends and epic slow smokers are truly history makers. They are previous World Champions, however they did not accomplish this title just once. They are the only people in the world who have won world championships twice. Shagai was the first to achieve World Champion status in 2013, and then again in 2017. Oleg Pedan was crowned World Champion in 2015, and then again in 2019.
Oleg Pedan recieving World Champion ST Dupont worth 22 000 USD
Alexander Shagai with CSWC Trophy as World Champion 2017
One of the duels finished well for Shagai
It is also worth noting that both of them won multiple qualification events and stretched the boundaries of the CSWC by setting World Records. Many times, they met each other as rivals, when friendship was exchanged for a good competitive competition spirit. Oleg Pedan won more times in that rivalry, but there is no doubt that their battles are always thrilling to watch. On the other hand, both of them are wonderful people who are adored by many worldwide cigar smokers due to their outgoing personality. They were well-known across the globe not just as world champions, but also as excellent people and great friends. One of the most notable friendships is that formed between former World Champion Mirko Giotto of Switzerland and Oleg Pedan of Russia. CSWC brought them together and made them as family friends. Without a doubt, Oleg and Aleksander are names we will hear about a lot more in CSWC, and we are looking forward to all the excitement they will offer us.
Beautiful friendship created by CSWC - from the left - Marko Bilic CSWC founder, Alexander Shagai (World Champion 2013, 2017, ) Mirko Giotto (World Champion 2016) and Oleg Pedan (World Champion 2015, 2019)