Leryn Franco Made an Impression During Her SI Swimsuit Debut in Banff

Thirteen years later, we’re still not over her incredible 2011 feature.

Leryn Franco was photographed byStephan Wurth in Banff, Canada.Stephan Wurth/Sports Illustrated

Leryn Franco wasn’t unaccustomed to posing for the camera when she stepped foot on the set of her 2011 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit feature. As a member of the Paraguayan Olympic team who competed in the javelin throw at three different Summer Games, her career was mostly rooted in track and field. But in addition to her athletics training, the now-42-year-old also pursued beauty pageants and modeling on the side.

In fact, in between her 2004 and 2008 Olympics appearances, Franco earned the runner-up spot in the Miss Universo Paraguay 2006 pageant. That’s why, when she agreed to pose for photographer Stephan Wurth for the 2011 SI Swimsuit issue—shortly ahead of her third and final Olympic appearance in 2012—it wasn’t a totally unexpected move.

Franco had a background in modeling and pageantry, and she put that skill on display during her trip to Banff, Canada. She posed in a handful of black and white swimsuits, which stood in stark contrast to the vibrant greens and blues of the lakeside location. Franco was—like that backdrop—a total natural in front of the lens, and we couldn’t have been more impressed.

We were so impressed that we’re not quite over the 2011 feature, despite the 13 years that have passed since she took to the SI Swimsuit set. There’s no doubt she can make an impression on and off the track. Here are a few of our favorites from the day.

Stephan Wurth/Sports Illustrated

Stephan Wurth/Sports Illustrated

Stephan Wurth/Sports Illustrated

Stephan Wurth/Sports Illustrated