The Tribune

THE Bahamas continues to receive international publicity thanks to Sports Illustrated unveiling of the historic, multi-platform launch of its 2016 swimsuit calendars, which features three covers, one of which was shot in the Exumas.

One of the covers features the American mixed martial artist Ronda Rousey, seated in stunning turquoise waters at the Grand Isle Resort and taken by famed photographer Frederic Pinet. Rousey models a body-painted swimsuit paying homage to The Bahamas’ vibrant and colourful cultural phenomenon, Junkanoo, which is reflected throughout the magazine.

“Sports Illustrated has featured The Islands of The Bahamas in several of its photo and video shoots in the past and we are thrilled that they have selected to feature our destination on this historic cover issue,” Joy Jibrilu, Director General for the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, said. “The unparalleled beauty of The Bahamas inclusive of its near perfect year-round weather, breath taking aquamarine waters and unspoiled charm makes The Bahamas the perfect backdrop for any photo-shoot and a swimsuit photo shoot by Sports Illustrated makes for a perfect marriage.”

The 2016 calendars, which were launched in mid-February across print, digital, mobile apps and during a first of its kind broadcast special on TNT, marked the first time in Sports Illustrated’s 52 years that the company produced multiple covers. The other two covers feature models Hailey Clauson and Ashley Graham and were photographed in different destinations.

Executives of Sports Illustrated are currently working with the ministry on plans for future film and photoshoot projects in its multi-destination chain.