Theme parks are celebrated for creating magical memories, but for one guest, an experience at Thorpe Park Resort became the catalyst for a profound life transformation. Craig Stokes, a Bournemouth resident, recounted an incident that turned his world upside down—and ultimately set him on a journey of self-improvement.
Thorpe Park, situated in Chertsey, Surrey, is one of the UK’s premier theme parks, offering adrenaline-fueled rides and immersive themed lands since its opening in 1979. Built on a former gravel pit, the park now features distinct areas like Swarm Island, themed around a post-apocalyptic invasion, the seaside-inspired Amity, and the mysterious Lost City.
Its standout attractions include the high-speed Stealth coaster, which rockets from 0 to 80 mph in just 1.8 seconds, and The Swarm, the country’s first winged roller coaster. Thrill-seekers flock to the park for these adventures, alongside water rides like Storm Surge and family-oriented spaces such as Angry Birds Land.
For Craig Stokes, however, his 2022 visit wasn’t filled with joy—it was an embarrassing and life-defining moment. During a trip with friends and family for his nephew’s bachelor party, Stokes attempted to ride Stealth, only to find himself unable to secure the restraint. “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 told the Daily Echo. “I had to get off the ride in front of all my friends and family and all these strangers.”
Thorpe Park’s safety regulations require all restraints to meet specific minimum positions before a ride can operate. As described on their website, Stealth is no ordinary coaster. “Prepare to experience the brake horsepower of two Formula 1 cars on our giant accelerator coaster,” reads the ride’s description, highlighting its status as a high-octane experience. Unfortunately, for Stokes, the incident was more than just a missed thrill—it was a wake-up call.
At the time, Stokes weighed approximately 322 pounds, a reality that became painfully clear during the ride incident. Reflecting on the moment, he admitted, “The wedding pictures were the most horrific photos of me; I was embarrassed about the way I looked.” Determined to change, Stokes embarked on a weight-loss journey.
He began by reducing his reliance on fast food, cutting out the three to four takeaways he previously consumed each week. This initial effort helped him shed 70 pounds, enabling him to incorporate walking and, eventually, running into his routine. With the guidance of Slimming World, Stokes ultimately lost half his body weight, achieving a remarkable 162 pounds.
His transformation didn’t just stop at physical changes. In May, Stokes was recognized as a finalist in Slimming World’s Man of the Year competition, a testament to his dedication. The journey came full circle when he returned to Thorpe Park earlier this year, this time with a newfound confidence. “I went back to Thorpe Park with my other nephew two weeks ago, and I went on everything, including Stealth,” he shared.
Today, Stokes’s life is unrecognizable from where it was before. “My life couldn’t be any more different now,” he said. “I feel so positive, happy, and active. 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’s experience resonates with others who have faced similar challenges. In 2023, another theme park visitor shared their story of losing 49 pounds after an uncomfortable ride experience, while one guest highlighted how theme park designs and roller coasters often exclude plus-sized visitors.
Have you ever had a theme park moment that changed your perspective? Share your experiences in the comments.
