WSOP winners also to become “Diamonds”

By Kevin Felix | June 19, 2008

As if being a champion at the World Series of Poker was not enough, bracelet winners will now also be awarded Diamond status in Harrah’s spectacular rewards loyalty program.

The relationship between Harrah’s and the WSOP has been impressively successful: Harrah's has been running the WSOP since 2004, making it grow by nearly 300% in four years (in terms of player participation.) The WSOP has also increased Harrah’s visibility, and facilitated a break into the European market with the World Series of Poker Europe. It was only fair that Harrah’s showed some recognition to the WSOP winners – such as Chris Moneymaker – who have done so much to popularize the sport, and this is how WSOP Commissioner Jeffrey Pollack views this decision, "We want every bracelet holder to know how important they are to our company and this gesture is an important step in that direction."

Diamond status will be awarded retroactively to all bracelet winners back to 1970, who will be able to enjoy Harrah’s most exclusive perks through March 2009. Too bad many of them are no longer able to claim this prize, such as pioneer Johnny Moss, tragic superstar Stu Ungar and the recently passed Chip Reese.

David Norton, Senior Vice President of Relationship Marketing for Harrah's Entertainment, outlined some of the benefits bracelet winners will enjoy:

We want to ensure that these valued customers get outstanding service such as expedited check-in and access to the diamond lounge so their experience at the Rio and other Harrah's resorts are as seamless as possible.

Harrah’s award-winning loyalty program Total Rewards has 4 tiers: Gold, Platinum, Diamond and the elusive Seven Star. All levels are entitled to a 10% discount at participating gift shops and the ability to earn comps, cash, and offers based on play. Platinum level players are also entitled to a birthday gift, credit multiplier days, free tournament entry and hotel stay for the members-only Summer and Winter Fest tournaments and tickets to shows in Las Vegas, Lake Tahoe, Reno, and Laughlin.

But WSOP bracelet winners will have even more: as Diamond players they will also have access to the exclusive Diamond Lounges, enjoy priority service at many Harrah’s destinations and be invited to exclusive events and tournaments at participating casinos. Bracelet holders will also receive access to a VIP registration line for all World Series of Poker events.

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