CSWC Grand Finale 2024 Judges - Crucial Role in Ensuring Fair Play of Final Race

The 2024 Cigar Smoking World Championship (CSWC) Grand Finale once again highlighted the critical importance of judges in the intense and emotional CSWC Challenge

Marija Marovic (middle in black) with Grand Final judges

The 2024 Cigar Smoking World Championship (CSWC) Grand Finale once again highlighted the critical importance of judges in the intense and emotional CSWC Challenge. Known for its razor-sharp rules and split-second decisions, the CSWC is a competition where even millimeters and seconds can mean the difference between victory and defeat. This year, the role of the judges, especially in enforcing the burning ring penalties, was brought into sharp focus.

Intense moments on the very last minutes of the final race with all judges on focus on the last finalist

One of the most contentious rules in the competition is the burning ring penalty, which can easily spark debate between competitors and judges. The Grand Finale saw this rule come into play in dramatic fashion, affecting the outcome of the competition. Anastasia Arsenova, a fierce contender for the Vice Champion title, was ultimately placed fifth due to a burning ring penalty, a decision that initially proved difficult for her to accept. However, the flawless professionalism and unflinching judgment of Sarah Saunders left no room for dispute. Her sharp eye and unwavering adherence to the rules underscored the necessity for strong, decisive judges, particularly in the high-stakes atmosphere of the Grand Finale.

As the celebration buzzes in the background, Sarah Saunders carefully inspects Hauke Walter's competition ring, checking for any signs of burning.

The 2024 Grand Finale was a testament to the exceptional quality of the judging team, which was assembled from all over the world. Their performance was nothing short of elite, ensuring the final slow-smoking race was executed with precision and fairness. At the helm of this team was Marija Marović, whose leadership was instrumental in orchestrating a smooth and cohesive judging process. The judges operated seamlessly as one unit, reinforcing the high standards expected at the championship's pinnacle event.

The judges, alongside Hulecos, conduct thorough inspections of the competition cigars and oversee the registration process before the Grand Finale.

A standout among the judges was newcomer David Bruce Taylor from London. His debut on the Grand Finale stage was remarkable, demonstrating top-tier judgment and attention to detail throughout the competition. His performance, alongside that of the entire judging team, reinforced the importance of having the best in the world overseeing the competition's most critical moments.

Sarah Saunders with his judge student David Bruce Taylor from London

The CSWC Grand Finale 2024 served as a powerful reminder of why the judges must be the sharpest, most decisive professionals in the field. Their expertise ensures that every competitor is held to the same exacting standards, making the difference between winning and losing clear, fair, and indisputable.

Grand Final Judges during entering ceremony in main competition arena