Elderly Canadian couple claim lottery jackpot

Aug 23, 2005, 3:54 pm (6 comments)

Canada 6/49

A beaming Brockville, Ontario, couple, who are both almost 90, have entered Canada's millionaire club after cashing in their Lotto/49 ticket from the Aug. 6 draw.

Victor and Thelma Hayes were still in disbelief yesterday but all smiles as they collected their oversized cheque for $7.5 million.

They have been married for 63 years and both turn 90 in a few weeks.

"We haven't fought yet," Mr. Hayes joked.

He has been playing the same numbers for years and won a $1,000 prize once and other free draws. But this time, Mr. Hayes bought a quick pick and hit the jackpot.

Mr. Hayes spent 26 years working for the Ontario government.

They live in a retirement home and have no plans to move.

As for the money, other than some car shopping, Mr. and Mrs. Hayes aren't sure how they'll spend it.

"We plan on helping out our kids and maybe buy a Lincoln. I've never had one," Mr. Hayes said.

Mrs. Hayes chuckled as she told reporters she'd be buying a new pair of nylons.

According to the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Commission, 74 per cent of millionaire winners share the jackpot with family members and 65 per cent buy a car.

Teresa Roncon, a spokeswoman for the commission, said that while she's unsure whether the Hayeses are the oldest individuals to win the lottery, they are likely the oldest couple to strike it rich in Ontario.

"They're nice winners," Ms. Roncon said. "They certainly have a very keen sense of humour."

The couple have two daughters, two granddaughters and one great-grandson.

Lottery Post Staff

Comments

BabyJC's avatarBabyJC

I'm surprised that they could read the numbers on the ticket to see that it was a winner -- LOL  I hope that they live another 10 years and live it up!

lottomoney

good for them better late then neverSmile

Rip Snorter

Good story.  Glad they won.

Jack

wizeguy's avatarwizeguy

Congrats to the Hayes family!

 

fwlawrence's avatarfwlawrence

That amount will buy a lot of false teeth.

monty's avatarmonty

Sure wonderful to see people next door,(a few miles) win a lottery at a late age in life, While we dont know the elderly couple we do know the children as my wife works  were one of the daughters are. I wish them well, and yes as many years as possible to enjoy it Have a great day everyone, Never give up there is always that chance

 

William in Prescott Ontario Canada

10 minutes from Brockville

End of comments
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