Sally Bauer is a 30-year-old Swedish swimmer and single mother who became the first Scandinavian to swim the English Channel in the late 1930s. Born in Helsingborg in 1908, she pursued her passion for long-distance swimming despite societal challenges and financial difficulties. As war loomed over Europe, Sally remained focused on her goal, overcoming personal and physical obstacles to achieve her dream. Her story is brought to life in The Swedish Torpedo, where actress Josefin Neldén portrays her inspiring journey with strength and grace.

The Swedish Torpedo (2024)

Trivia/Facts

• Sally Bauer is a Swedish woman born in Helsingborg in 1908. She developed a love for swimming during her teenage years and soon became passionate about long-distance swimming. Despite being a single mother, she pursued her dream of becoming the first Scandinavian to swim the English Channel. Her determination was driven by a desire to achieve something remarkable before World War II began.
• In the film The Swedish Torpedo, Sally Bauer is portrayed by actress Josefin Neldén. The movie shows Bauer’s struggle to balance her personal responsibilities as a mother with her challenging athletic ambitions. Financial difficulties and societal expectations made it hard for her to get support for her swims. Yet, she remained focused on her goal to conquer the English Channel.

The Swedish Torpedo (2024)

• Bauer faced several obstacles, including the onset of World War II, which added urgency to her mission. She needed both physical endurance and mental strength to swim in the icy, rough waters for nearly 15 hours. Along the way, she had to rely on the help of her son’s father, a married sports reporter she still cared for. Her perseverance in overcoming fear and doubt was central to her success.
• Josefin Neldén’s portrayal of Sally Bauer captures her resilience and determination. The character’s journey is not just about her incredible swimming feat but also about her inner strength as a woman in a difficult time. Bauer’s story, as depicted in the film, is an inspiring example of what can be achieved through persistence and courage.

The Swedish Torpedo (2024)

Sally Bauer’s Relationship with Other Characters

• Sally Bauer and Her Son: Sally Bauer is a dedicated single mother, and her relationship with her son is one of love and responsibility. She balances her passion for swimming with caring for him, often struggling to provide a stable life. Despite her challenges, she is determined to show him the importance of following dreams. Her son’s well-being motivates her to keep going, even in difficult times.
• Sally Bauer and the Father of Her Son: The father of Sally’s son is a married sports reporter, and their relationship is complicated. Although they are no longer together, Sally still cares for him, and he plays a supportive role in her swim challenge. Despite their personal history, they work together to help her achieve her dream. Their relationship is built on respect, even though it’s not free from emotional tension.

The Swedish Torpedo (2024)

• Sally Bauer and Society: Sally’s relationship with society is marked by struggle, as she faces judgment for being a single mother pursuing an unconventional dream. Many people doubt her ability to swim the English Channel and question her priorities. However, Sally remains focused and determined, refusing to let societal expectations hold her back. Her success is a way of proving her strength to herself and the world.