Theme parks are often places of joy and excitement, but for one man, a visit to Thorpe Park Resort in Chertsey, Surrey, became a turning point that transformed his life forever. The park, known for its heart-pounding attractions and immersive experiences, provided a life-altering moment for Craig Stokes, who shared his story with the Daily Echo.
Thorpe Park, established in 1979 on a former gravel pit, is a haven for thrill-seekers and families alike. The park boasts themed lands like the apocalyptic Swarm Island, the retro-inspired Amity, and the mysterious Lost City.
Signature attractions include Stealth, a record-breaking accelerator coaster that rockets riders from 0 to 80 mph in just 1.8 seconds, and The Swarm, the UK’s first winged roller coaster. These rides, alongside water adventures like Storm Surge and family-friendly areas such as Angry Birds Land, make Thorpe Park a premier destination.
However, not every moment at Thorpe Park is picture-perfect. For Craig Stokes, a visit in 2022 for his nephew’s bachelor party became a public and deeply personal challenge. “I went to Thorpe Park, and they tried to get me on the rollercoaster; several of them tried to close the restraints, but they physically couldn’t do it up,” Stokes recalled. “I had to get off the ride in front of all my friends and family and all these strangers.”
The ride in question was Stealth, a towering roller coaster that embodies speed and power. According to Thorpe Park’s official website, the attraction’s safety measures require that restraints and seat belts meet specific positions before the ride can proceed. Unfortunately for Stokes, the moment underscored the reality of his health. At the time, the 43-year-old weighed 322 pounds and described the experience as “the ultimate most embarrassing moment of my life.”
What followed was a profound change. Stokes committed to a journey of transformation, starting with his diet. “The wedding pictures were the most horrific photos of me; I was embarrassed about the way I looked,” he admitted. He began by cutting back on frequent takeaways, dropping 70 pounds before he even started exercising.
Slowly, he introduced walking into his routine, which eventually led to running. With the support of Slimming World, a popular weight-loss program, Stokes achieved remarkable results. By May, he had shed half his body weight, dropping down to 162 pounds, and was named in the top 10 of Slimming World’s Man of the Year competition.
“But it’s sort of come full circle now,” Stokes said, reflecting on his journey. “I went back to Thorpe Park with my other nephew two weeks ago, and I went on everything, including Stealth.” His return to the park symbolized more than just a physical transformation; it marked a renewal of confidence and joy. “My life couldn’t be any more different now. I feel so positive, happy, and active,” he shared. “I secured my dream job, which I never would have had the confidence to even interview for before. I’m the healthiest I’ve been in my whole life.”
Stokes isn’t alone in finding motivation through theme park experiences. In 2023, another guest reported losing 49 pounds after facing difficulties on rides, while a young woman spoke out about the challenges plus-sized individuals face at theme parks, calling attention to ride designs.
Have you ever witnessed or experienced a life-changing moment like this at a theme park? Share your stories in the comments below!
