A Niagara Falls family is heading to sunny shores after winning big this Christmas Eve. Martin Wardrop, a local railroad worker, made the lucky decision to purchase a Lotto 6/49 ticket, which turned out to be worth $100,000. The fortunate moment occurred when Wardrop stopped by Avondale on Kalar Road to pick up ice for his family's holiday celebration.
Wardrop, who typically buys lottery tickets only when jackpots soar, expressed his disbelief upon discovering his win. "I thought I'd maybe won $100, so I asked my wife to double-check the prize amount," he shared. To his astonishment, she uncovered the comma indicating the prize as $100,000. "We were both so shocked and my hands were shaking," he reminisced about the moment just days after Christmas.
The discovery was made through the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) smartphone app, showcasing the modern way many lottery players check their tickets. Wardrop ensured his win by having his mother-in-law verify the ticket, making the moment all the more reassuring for the excited family.
Although this win came as a delightful surprise, Wardrop expressed his humble nature about it, saying, "I just couldn't believe it. I never thought something like this would happen to me." He reflected on how life-changing the win feels, stating, "It still doesn't feel real. It's very exciting and certainly changes things for me. It feels great."
The planned use of his winnings reflects typical responsible spending as well as some fun. Wardrop intends to clear some bills and invest toward the future. He mentioned, "I'll pay off some bills, invest in a nest egg for the future, and treat my family to a few nice things." The family has made preliminary plans for a vacation, where they can enjoy some time together away from the winter chill.
It’s notable to mention the Lotto 6/49 game, which gives players the chance to win two multi-million dollar jackpots every week for just $3 per play. The OLG promotes responsible gambling through its PlaySmart program, ensuring players are engaging with the lottery safely.
This Christmas win is part of the Lotto 6/49 Super Draw, which featured 15 guaranteed prizes of $100,000 on top of standard Lotto offerings. The event highlights the excitement surrounding the lottery during festive seasons, making it not just about financial gain but also creating memorable moments for families like the Wardrops.
Wardrop's experience resonates with many casual players who sometimes take the chance during holidays or special occasions. His story adds to the narrative of hope and happiness often associated with lottery wins, especially when these wins come like unexpected gifts during festive times.
While most lottery stories might sound distant or unlikely, this local win touches on themes of family, fortune, and the joys of unexpected surprises. For the Wardrop family, their Christmas recognition has turned from gifts under the tree to dreams of sun-soaked holidays, reinforcing the idea of what Christmas spirit can inspire.