Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay Sommelier Polakovicova Earns Advanced Certification
September 22, 2014 - Half Moon Bay Sommelier Petra Polakovicova has passed the Court of Master Sommeliers' Advanced Sommelier Exam. She is now one of only 325 Advanced Sommeliers in the United States.
“We are extremely proud of Petra and her dedication to her craft,” said James Cole, Hotel Manager/Director of Food & Beverage for The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay. “Petra's passion for the industry and clear enjoyment of helping others learn more about wine make her the perfect ambassador, and we are truly honored that she will continue to share her knowledge and enthusiasm with our guests here at the resort,” added Cole.
The Advanced Certification Exam is a three-day exam that was taken by 47 candidates from 23 states and three countries. Petra was one of seven candidates to pass and one of four that passed taking the exam for the first time.
“Taking this exam was one of the most difficult things I have ever done,” proclaims Polakovicova. “When the Master Sommelier called me in and told me that I had passed, I was so excited. It was such an incredible feeling; it was like a dream. It took a few days for it to really sink in. I guess I am proof that if you really want something, you can achieve it with a lot of hard work and dedication,” she added.
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda,Maryland, USA, with more than 4,200 properties in 80 countries and territories. Marriott International reported revenues of nearly $14 billion in fiscal year 2014. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 19 brands, including: The Ritz-Carlton®, BVlgari®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels®, Delta Hotels and Resorts®, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Gaylord Hotels®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Courtyard®, Residence Inn®, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, TownePlace Suites®, Protea Hotels® and MoxyHotels®. Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business ethics. The company also manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together surpass 50 million members. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at 
