Shark Reef Aquarium Welcomes 10 Millionth Guest During Summer-Long Celebration

LAS VEGAS, Aug. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay celebrated Shark Week with a remarkable 10-Year Birthday milestone when the attraction welcomed its 10 millionth guest this week.  Julian Ruvalcaba was the lucky winner who received the grand prize package including a two-night stay in deluxe accommodations at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, tickets to Disney's THE LION KING, Shark Reef Aquarium Annual Passes for the family and dinner at award-winning chef Michael Mina's acclaimed STRIPSTEAK.  Mr. Ruvalcaba, from El Paso, Texas, was visiting Shark Reef Aquarium with his wife, Isela Garcia, and their two children, Mariana (age 8) and Julian (age 1) when they learned of their timely visit.

"This is our first trip to Shark Reef.  We decided to come because some friends highly recommended the aquarium," Ruvalcaba said.  "This is a great prize package and we're excited about all of it, but mostly about our return trip to Las Vegas."  

Jim Maddy, president and CEO of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), said, "On behalf of the AZA, we congratulate Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay on achieving two great institutional milestones.  Over the last 10 years, Shark Reef Aquarium has provided awe-inspiring animal encounters to each and every one of those 10 million visitors, imparting an educational and entertaining experience."

Shark Reef Aquarium is the first and only animal care facility in Nevada to be accredited by the AZA.

Shark Reef Aquarium hosted two birthday parties earlier this summer, but guests who missed the first two celebrations can join the fun August 21 to enjoy discounted admission prices, complimentary face painting, balloons, cookies and birthday fin crowns, plus a special appearance by Sharky the Shark.

SOURCE MGM Resorts International