To say the McLeskeys have been influential to Virginia Beach and the Hampton Roads region would be quite the understatement. Cheryl’s late husband, F. Wayne McLeskey Jr., built a highly successful commercial development company which helped transform and improvemany Virginiamunicipalities and destinations. He also shared his passion for fishing, flying and philanthropy as part of his legacy. Since his passing in 2012, Cheryl has found many ways to honor him, including taking the reins of the company, continuing to actively fish the top billfish tournaments and facilitating charitable endeavors. In 2015, Cheryl won the White Marlin Open title with a 94-pounder aboard the Backlash. Her succession of boats is readily familiar to anyone paying attention to mid-Atlantic tournaments, including Promises Too, Croupier, and Captain Cheryl. In describing what sets apart her latest custom yacht, Cheryl Anne, she explains, “Wayne and I would walk the docks at North Palm Beach Marina, and always admired the design and beauty of any Rybovich, especially the Ruthie, a 32’ walkaround.” Always on the lookout for one of these classics, McLeskey enlisted Bluewater Sales Professional Matt Serafin when it was time for a change, and in a way, honor another of her memories with Wayne. Originally built as the Coral C, this 65 footer was the first hull built after the “reboot” of Rybovich & Sons by Michael Rybovich in 2006. These custom-built sportfish are well known for their original Palm Beach style, beautiful lines and impeccable craftsmanship. When this boat, hull 122, came on the market as Two Cats, it was ultimately an opportunity she couldn’t pass up. “Matt Serafin was a pleasure to work with. He is an asset to Bluewater and was extremely focused on helping me find the perfect boat,” she summarizes. CEO, breast cancer survivor, pilot, champion angler, philanthropist… No single title or interest can define the inimitable Cheryl McLeskey. FINDING THE PERFECT BOAT 50 BLUEWATER
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