If there there was a scenario where the word ‘champion’ seemed fitting, it would be to describe Eric Hites.
The 40-year-old has made headlines worldwide today after embarking on an epic biking journey across the US, reports ABC. A remarkable feat even for the average person, but all the more impressive when you consider that Eric weighs in at a whopping 563 pounds — or 255 kilograms.
He admits his weight has crept to dangerous levels in recent years, and has not only put pressure on his health, but also on his marriage. On his blog [Fat Guy Across America]((http://www.fatguyacrossamerica.com/) Hites admits his love of food led to his marriage eventually “falling apart”.
Determined not to let the love of his life slip away, Hites has now made a decision worthy of rom-com movie status. After listening to the Proclaimer’s song “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)”, he decided to get on a bicycle, lose lots of weight, and win his wife back.
“The first day I cranked out 100 yards and [took] a break,” he said, admitting his stamina was increasing as the days went on.
“In the first week I had a couple doubts. … I had self doubt about ‘What have I done?’” he recalled. “I’m doing it because I love my wife and it kept me going. … I want to spend the rest of my life with her. That drives me.”
Through sheer determination, already he has lost nearly 28 kilograms and bicycled over 1500 kilometres.
And it appears his health (and heart) isn’t the only thing thanking him for his efforts. Hites wife has also “changed her tune” after being surprised he wasn’t “all talk”.
The pair have “rededicated unofficially” one month into his adventure.
You can follow his journey biking through America here.
