In a stroke of extraordinary luck that could only be described as once-in-a-lifetime, Ian Dupre of Embrun, Ontario experienced the ultimate day of fortune. Not only did he welcome his second child into the world, but he also became a millionaire thanks to a scratch-off lottery ticket. Ontario Lottery and Gaming confirmed the win, stating that Dupre’s $1 million prize came from the instant game $100 Ultimate, connected to a January 4 draw. The golden ticket was sourced from Quickie Pearl convenience store nestled in Brockville.
Dupre, a 37-year-old data analyst who seldom indulges in lottery games, decided to try his luck shortly after his child’s birth. “I drove my wife to the next town to have our baby. After the baby was born, I decided to pick up some tickets while we were waiting to leave the hospital,” Dupre recounted to Lottery officials. “I figured I would try my luck. Sure enough, I checked my ticket after the draw and see I won $1 million – I was in complete disbelief.”
The first person Dupre shared the unbelievable news with was his wife, whose reaction mirrored his incredulity. “She couldn’t believe it,” he said, still marvelling at the turn of events. “It’s surreal,” he added, capturing the essence of the moment in a single word.
The windfall was officially claimed at the Lottery’s Toronto office, with the $1 million Canadian prize translating to just under $750,000 in the United States. When asked about his plans for the newfound wealth, Dupre stated that he intends to settle some bills and look into investment opportunities to secure his family’s future.
The $100 Ultimate game, which Dupre played, costs a steep $100 per ticket. However, it boasts 40 top prizes of $1 million each, along with ten available $100,000 prizes. The total number of prizes available at the time of the January 4, 2024, drawing stood at 281,380. With odds of winning a prize at one in 3.55 and a more daunting one in 25,000 chance of securing the top $1 million, Dupre’s win is nothing short of miraculous.
Lottery enthusiasts keen on trying their hand at this game of chance can purchase tickets at various in-person locations including gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores. Even certain airport terminals may offer a last-minute purchase before a flight. For those looking to conveniently play the lottery from the comfort of their homes, tickets are also available online.
Through Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network, users residing in a number of U.S. states and territories can order tickets with ease using their phone or home computer. States where this service is available include Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Texas, Washington D.C., and West Virginia.
Jackpocket’s role as the official digital lottery courier reflects a growing trend towards digitization of traditional lottery systems. As such, Gannett may receive earnings from referrals to Jackpocket services. Nevertheless, Jackpocket’s participation is clearly defined by set terms. Consumers must be aged 18 and over, 21 and older in Arizona, and 19-plus in Nebraska to make use of Jackpocket’s offerings. Jackpocket is independent of any State Lottery.
The joyous news of Dupre’s double win serves as a testament to the whims of fate and fortune. As he looks forward to a future marked by financial security and the joy of a growing family, others are reminded that sometimes, lightning does indeed strike twice.
