Canadian makes lottery player dad proud with first big win
Winning the lottery is exciting enough, but for one Canadian, it’s even more special to be able to share the moment with his lottery-loving dad.
Ryan Stacey, 46, is a Barrie, Ont., resident who has been playing the lottery for the past two decades, opting for a mix of games such as Crossword, Bingo, Plinko, and Money Machine. While at a gas station one day, he decided to pick up an Instant Crossword Tripler for $5.
“I played my ticket at home and was stunned when I discovered I’d won big,” Stacey shared.
After years of trying his luck in the lottery, he finally landed his first big win: the Instant Crossword Tripler top prize worth $100,000.
“I checked it maybe 100 times,” he recalled. “I just couldn’t believe I was holding this ticket in my hands!”
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Despite the shock, he managed to stay calm and keep the incredible news to himself and his trusted inner circle.
“I kept the news close to the vest, only telling family and friends,” said Stacey. “They’re all very happy for me.”
But his win was even more special for one family member: his dad, a loyal lottery player.
“He’s very proud of me,” shared Stacey.
While at the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto to pick up his $100,000 cheque, he said that the money will go towards his future as he plans to save and invest it wisely.
When asked what it feels like to win big, he stated, “It’s incredible. It’s definitely overwhelming, but in a very good way. I feel so fortunate and grateful to have won this prize.”
The winning ticket was purchased at Shell on Yonge Street in Barrie.
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.