Smoking Contests

CIPC, its national members and local clubs have organized slow smoking competitions in Europe for many years, using International Rules formulated by CIPC. The international competitions are particularly festive events which draw hundreds of contestants of many different nationalities.

 

UPCA introduced such smoking contests to the United States after it joined CIPC in 2003. The first U.S. National Championship took place at the Chicago Show that year.

 

Anyone who has participated in a smoking contest knows that they generate excitement and are great fun.  They bring smokers together and promote fellowship and enthusiasm for our hobby. Here's how it works:

Each contestant receives the same pipe, 3 grams of tobacco and 2 matches. Each has 5 minutes to prepare the tobacco and fill his/her pipe. Then 1 minute to light the pipe using only the 2 matches. The person who keeps his/her pipe lit the longest (without relighting!) wins.It sounds simple, but.....it's a challenge!  Don't miss our section on Preparing for Contests.

 

The current world record is 3 hours 18 minutes 15 seconds, set by Gianfranco Ruscalla of Italy in 2003! The U.S. record of 1 hour 55 minutes 12 seconds  was set at the 2003 Western Regional contest in Seattle by Craig Watness, who also won the 2006 National Championship. 

 

The number of competitors in the U.S. National Championship is growing each year. Most smokers who participate for the first time enjoy the experience and are enthusiastic about competing again the following year. So practice a little and join in the fun!

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