Stunning Alyssa Campanella crowned Miss USA 2011

 PHOTO: Reuters, AFP

SHE struck gold in Las Vegas.

Miss California Alyssa Campanella was named Miss USA 2011 on Sunday at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in gambling capital of the world.

The 21-year-old model from Sherman Oaks - who succeeds previous winner Miss Rima Fakih - describes herself as a "history buff" and history book collector who's "obsessed with the Tudor and Stuart eras."

She will now represent the US at the Miss Universe competition.

The Las Vegas Review reported: "It was more likely Campanella's green eyes, red hair and ability to wear an emerald green gown in such a striking manner that won her the Miss USA 2011 crown Sunday during the nationally televised pageant from Planet Hollywood Resort."

Miss Tennessee Ashley Durham - who is best friends with Miss California - was named first runner-up and Miss Alabama Madeline Mitchell was placed third.