Chesapeake Hospitality, one of the country’s fastest growing third-party hotel management companies, announced today that the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore received the prestigious IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) 2012 Torchbearer Award. Kim Sims, president of Chesapeake Hospitality, made the announcement.
         The Torchbearer Award was presented during the 2012 IHG Americas Investors and Leadership Conference in Orlando, Fla., Oct. 24–26, 2012, with nearly 5,000 franchise owners, operators and company officials in attendance.
         Managed by Chesapeake Hospitality and owned by Williamsburg, Va-based Maryland Hospitality Corporation, the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore is one of only 102 properties within the Americas chosen from the IHG system of more than 4,500 hotels for achieving the highest levels of excellence in all aspects of operation — from quality to customer satisfaction. As a result of this prestigious achievement, the 2012 Torchbearer trophy — the company's symbol of excellence — will be on permanent display at the hotel.
         “We are absolutely thrilled that our Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore has been honored for its extraordinary service and complete customer satisfaction,” said Sims. “This award is a direct result of our industry expertise coupled with our talented staff that together delivers an unmatched experience to each and every guest.”
         The luxurious Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore offers upscale accommodations and is located in the heart of the Westshore Business District. Featured amenities include a 24-hour fitness and business center, complimentary Internet and shuttle services, and Tampa’s latest sought after establishment, the Mojito Restaurant & Lounge.
         “It is my pleasure to name the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore as one of the top-notch hotels in our industry,” said Kirk Kinsell, President, the Americas, IHG. “This hotel embodies the heart of our brand promise and continues to make IHG properties known and admired throughout the world, continuing our mission to deliver Great Hotels Guests Love.”