Christie Brinkley first graced the cover of Sports Illustrated's infamous swimsuit issue in 1979. She also made the cover in 1980 and 1981, becoming the first model to appear on 3 consecutive covers. Her supermodel career spans 4 marriages, 3 kids and more than 20 years. Christie Brinkley first graced the cover of Sports Illustrated's infamous swimsuit issue in 1979. She also made the cover in 1980 and 1981, becoming the first model to appear on 3 consecutive covers. Her supermodel career spans 4 marriages, 3 kids and more than 20 years.