Backstroke in the United Kingdom
Backstroke was part of the first set of Baby Sea Ponies, and she
was sold in many countries in the same format as that released in
the UK. She was made in the forward facing pose, and came with an
aqua and orange float. She also came with a whale brush. In North
America and most other releases, this brush was a rich pink
colour, so it is likely that she came with this accessory in the
UK as well. She is pictured for sale in the Argos catalogue,
however, with a dark teal blue whale brush. As Argos often deboxed
ponies to take their own photographs, it is possible (but
unconfirmed) that this was an accessory variation. Without a Mint
on Card version it is hard to know for sure.
Backstroke in Other Places
Backstroke's original release was in North America in 1985-6.
She was subsequently sold in the Benelux countries on the same
card as in North America, but with a sticker on the top corner
in Dutch and French. She was also sold in France on translated
cards with the UK art style, and in Italy on Italian-specific
design cards. She may also have been sold in German speaking
countries, as later Baby Sea Pony sets were sold there, but at
present I cannot confirm this. It is unclear if they were sold
in other places.
Backstroke Mint on Card
(USA release card with Benelux sticker in top corner)
Image from Shivhae
Backstroke's Character
Backstroke was known for being the best swimmer of all the Baby
Sea Ponies, and often helped the others to improve their swimming
skills. Her US backcard indicates that she was named by Splasher
because of this skill - whether she had a name before this or how
she felt about her new moniker is unknown. :)
