RENO, NV–(Marketwire – October 7, 2010) – Monarch Casino and Resort, Inc. (NASDAQ: MCRI) — Atlantis Casino Resort Spa General Manager & Executive Vice President Darlyne Sullivan was honored with the Industry Pride of the Year Award at the International Women in Gaming Awards (“WIGs”) in London, England on Friday, September 24^th. Ms. Sullivan was selected from a field of 175 international nominees recognized for their achievements as female role models in the gaming industry. According to WIG, the Industry Pride Award is given to one exceptional woman whose vision, innovative approach and success make her an outstanding role model whose achievements will inspire women to choose a career in the gaming industry.

Prior to the event, WIG announced that Ms. Sullivan had been selected as one of eight finalists for the Leader of the Year Award, but there was no pre-event disclosure of the Industry Pride nominees. Thus, Ms. Sullivan stated that she was both “surprised and humbled” when her name was called as the recipient of the evening’s most prestigious award. Ms. Sullivan added, “I was stunned. I immediately thought about our team of 1,800 people back at Atlantis. This award is a tribute to the entire Atlantis team that made this possible. This is their award.” Ms. Sullivan was the only United States nominee to receive an award at this prestigious event.

The Women in Gaming Awards (“WIGs”) were created to highlight exceptional women working in the gaming industry and to recognize role models who show that the industry provides exciting career opportunities for women throughout the world.

See the complete list of winners here: http://www.gaming-awards.com/wigwinners2010.html

Atlantis Casino Resort Spa is wholly owned by Monarch Casino and Resort, Inc. (NASDAQ: MCRI) and is located on the corner of South Virginia and Peckham Lane, in the heart of Reno’s new shopping and dining district. Atlantis offers eight award-winning restaurants, world-class casino action, live entertainment, complimentary valet service and acres of free self-parking. Visit www.AtlantisCasino.com for information on events, tournaments, dining specials, online reservations and more. For more information call (775) 825-4700 or toll-free at (800) 723-6500.