British Virgin Islands in Sports Illustrated 50th Anniversary Edition

  • February 19, 2014
British Virgin Islands in Sports Illustrated 50th Anniversary Edition
Guana Island Resort, an 850-acre resort owned by esteemed philanthropist Dr. Henry Jarecki and one of the few remaining privately owned islands in the Caribbean, provided the location for one of the 2014 swimwear editorials, which showcases three professional athletes modeling in the pristine natural beauty of the destination.

This marks the fifth appearance of the British Virgin Islands in Sports Illustrated – past shoots have featured Guana Island, Necker Island, Peter Island and Virgin Gorda. The 50th Anniversary Swimsuit Production celebrates legendary past cover models, including American supermodel Christie Brinkley whose 1980 cover was photographed entirely on-location in Virgin Gorda by famous lensman John G. Zimmerman. The Brinkley-British Virgin Islands collaboration proved to be a best-seller, landing the 1980 production in Sports Illustrated's Top 5 covers of all-time.

This year's shoot features three different professional athletes as models, shot by acclaimed photographer Adam Franzino: professional soccer player and Olympic Gold Medalist Alex Morgan, WNBA star Skylar Diggins and professional surfer Anastasia Ashley. In the production, Ms. Morgan is shown wearing an Ola Vida swimsuit, while Ms. Diggins models a Belusso design and Ms. Ashley dons a San Lorenzo suit. Said Ms. Morgan of her visit to the British Virgin Islands, “This is one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. The culture, the beaches, the food…it's unlike anywhere else in the world.”

One of the territory's most forward-thinking private island destinations, the majority of Guana Island is covered in verdant forests coating rolling hills, deep valleys and mountainous peaks. Characterized by its commitment to world-class hospitality in an environmentally pristine setting, Guana Island appeals to discerning travelers from around the world, and accommodates no more than 35 guests at a time in its discretely luxurious villas and cottages. Long known for its secluded, white-sand beaches and personalized service, Guana has also become a destination for epicurean travelers, who are drawn by the island's restaurant, overseen by Executive Chef Xavier Amau, and his menus made with locally sourced ingredients.

Comprised of 60 islands and cays, the British Virgin Islands are renowned as one of the world's premier beach and sailing destinations, its vast topography providing visitors the unique opportunity to “island hop” with ease. Each island offers its own natural and cultural treasures, from stunning and secluded beaches to gorgeous hillscapes.

For more information www.Guana.com and www.bvitourism.com