NEWS
GREAT SLOW SMOKING RACES AT AUSTRALIA, USA AND DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
With the Grand Final on the horizon, the excitement is palpable as champions from around the world prepare to compete for the ultimate title.
Rafael Solano Champion of DR 2024 with judges and rest of the best ones from DR CSWC final race
CSWC Dominican Republic: A Thrilling Display of Cigar Craftsmanship
Last week, the Cigar World Lounge Bar in Santo Domingo was the epicenter of excitement as it hosted the CSWC Dominican Republic qualifier. Organized by the esteemed Danays León Sánchez and Ana Camila Besú of Sprelinga Cigars, the event attracted some of the most skilled cigar enthusiasts in the country for a day of intense competition.
The star of the show was Solano Portoreal, who once again demonstrated his mastery of the slow smoking art, clinching first place with an impressive time of 1:50:26:10. Close on his heels was Magda Perez, securing the second spot with a time of 1:40:46, followed by Vladimir Taveras in third place with a time of 1:31:33. Notably, the competition saw no penalties, highlighting the high level of skill and sportsmanship among all participants.
The event, judged by León Sánchez and Besú, was a meticulously organized affair, ensuring a fair and thrilling competition. Collaborations with Tastings Tours and Events Company, Cigar Lounges Guide, Sofisticato Design, Cafe El Cibao, Italo Dominican Cigar Factory, Inaru Cacao, Brugal Rum, and the event's official photographer, Jean Pierre Estévez, added to the event's success.
Drew Emch, defending Champion of USA with Christina Bartinkowski with judges and hosts of the CSWC USA
CSWC USA: A Thrilling Showdown at Club Leaf and Bean in Pittsburgh
Meanwhile, in the USA, the CSWC qualifier in Pittsburgh was a spectacular affair, held at the exclusive Club Leaf and Bean in Cranberry. Nearly 30 competitors gathered, with two legends of the USA CSWC scene taking center stage: reigning USA champion Drew Emch and former USA champion Christina Bartinowski.
The atmosphere was electric as participants lit their Rocky Patel cigars, signaling the start of an intense competition. Drew faced unexpected and fierce competition from Christina, who proved she was still a formidable contender. Despite nearly being eliminated twice, Christina managed to keep the fire alive, demonstrating her resilience and expertise. She finished just one minute behind Drew, who retained his USA champion title.
Bruce Goodman also put on an impressive performance, securing third place. With both Drew and Christina confirming their participation in the CSWC Grand Final, anticipation is building for how they will perform on the world stage. Drew, in particular, has his sights set on the world champion title, a goal he has been chasing for two years.
Samuel Spurr (left ) with Australian champion George Zaiter and Host of the CSWC qualifier
CSWC Sydney: Australia Hosts Its Second Qualifier
On the other side of the world, Sydney, Australia, hosted its second CSWC qualifier on 28 August. The event welcomed 13 competitors and close to 20 guests, with Rocky Patel cigars provided by Cigar Hut and a whisky, cognac, and rum tasting from BarMania.
The competition was won by George Zaiter with a time of 1 hour, 5 minutes, and 57 seconds. Close behind was Taylah Commisso, who traveled from Canberra and finished with a time of 1 hour, 3 minutes, and 37 seconds. Sasa Kostaski placed third, just 30 seconds behind Taylah. All top three competitors managed to avoid penalties, a testament to their skill in handling the Rocky Patel CSWC Mareva cigar.
The Australian record, however, remains unbroken, still held by 2022 winner Sarkis Akopov with a time of 1 hour, 46 minutes.