Katie Austin Reflects on Being Mentor for Rookies the Way Brooks Nader, Camille Kostek Were for Her

The 2021 Swim Search co-winner was named co-Rookie of ’22 and returned to this year’s magazine for her third feature.

Katie Austin.Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

Katie Austin is giving back in the most adorable way. The 2023 SI Swimsuit model, a Rookie of the Year co-winner in ’22 and Swim Search open casting call co-winner in ’21, has plenty of valuable experience within the franchise.

The 29-year-old was photographed by James Macari in the Dominican Republic earlier this year.

View Katie Austin’s full 2023 SI Swimsuit gallery here.

“This is so exciting. I feel like it’s such an exciting time to all be together too,” Austin said about the SI Swimsuit launch week events at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. “I feel like [I’m] leading all the rookies as well, kind of showing them the ropes in a little way, because it’s technically year three for me. It’s really fun to be back and getting close with the other girls and to be with the whole team. I’m running on so much adrenaline right now. I should be tired, but it’s so exciting.”

Katie Austin was photographed by James Macari in the Dominican Republic. Swimsuit by Gil Rodriguez. Necklace by NOTTE.

James Macari/Sports Illustrated

The fitness influencer added that she offers advice and acts as a mentor to 2022 Swim Search winner Mady Dewey in the way that 2019 cover star Camille Kostek and 2023 cover star Brooks Nader have been mentors for her.

“That’s a really cool moment for me. [It] kind of comes full circle. I just feel a little bit more confident this year,” Austin said. “I know the [SI Swimsuit] team so much better. I feel more comfortable. I know myself a little bit more and how I align with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit. It just feels so great and refreshing.”

Katie Austin and Christen Harper.

Alberto Tamargo/Getty Images

Austin added that something people on the outside of the SI Swimsuit family may not understand is that “nothing is a competition” among the women.

“That’s the coolest part about it, truly. Especially like me and Christen Harper, we won together. She is my actual best friend,” Austin gushed. “I want the best for her, and I want the best for everyone else. We support each other so much because we all are so unique. It’s so genuine.”

Katie Austin was photographed by James Macari in the Dominican Republic. Swimsuit by HAUS OF PINKLEMONAID.

James Macari/Sports Illustrated

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