Canadian retiree shocked by huge Christmas Day lottery win
A Canadian man received an unexpected holiday surprise when he won a six-figure prize on Christmas day.
Paul Harrison is a retiree who lives in Brantford, Ontario, and has been playing the lottery for 40 years. Some of his favourite games include Lotto 6/49, Lotto Max, Ontario 49, and Lottario. The father of three said he uses OLG’s Quick Pick feature to choose his numbers.
Harrison recalled the moment he checked his Lotto 6/49 ticket after the draw.
“I checked my ticket following the Christmas Day draw and couldn’t believe my eyes,” he said.
PenguinLens/Shutterstock
Harrison received the ultimate Christmas present when he found out that he had won a Lotto 6/49 prize during the December 25, 2024, draw. The Classic Draw winning numbers were 05, 06, 14, 16, 18, 44, and bonus 19, and he had managed to beat the odds by matching five of the six winning numbers and the bonus number, netting himself a second prize win worth $316,029.50.
“It was amazing! I shared the news with my wife and daughter, and they were both so happy for me,” he said.
While at the OLG Prize Centre to claim his cheque, he shared what he plans to do with his windfall.
“Winning this prize brings a sense of relief,” Harrison smiled. “It’s a great feeling. I plan to pay some bills and buy a new car.”
The winning ticket was purchased at Metro on St. Paul Avenue in Brantford.
The next Lotto 6/49 draw is set for Wednesday, February 12, and the Gold Ball jackpot is worth $12 million.
All forms of gambling, including the lottery, involve risk and outcomes are based on chance. Individuals are strongly advised to gamble responsibly. If you are experiencing any signs of gambling-related issues, check out these resources.