It was an extraordinary day of celebration at what can now be confidently called Ireland’s luckiest shop, G O Stores, after confirmation that it sold the winning ticket for last Saturday’s Lotto jackpot worth over €8.9 million. This monumental event has rekindled memories of a similarly historic win almost two decades ago.
One exceedingly fortunate Lotto player claimed the breathtaking sum of €8,970,934 after successfully matching all six main numbers along with the bonus number in Saturday night’s draw. The winning numbers, which will go down in local folklore, were 01, 09, 10, 14, 26, 40, and the bonus number, 04.
The National Lottery revealed that the winning Quick Pick ticket was purchased on the very day of the draw at G O Stores. This establishment, situated at the heart of the Garryowen community on the fringes of Limerick city, has now cemented its reputation as a beacon of good fortune.
G O Stores previously found itself in the spotlight back in 2005, when it sold the winning ticket for what was then the largest ever EuroMillions jackpot prize. Dolores McNamara, a local resident, went down in history as Ireland’s first EuroMillions jackpot winner when she purchased her life-altering ticket worth over €115 million at G O Stores in July of that year.
Reflecting on this momentous occasion, store owner Tom Brosnan could scarcely believe that another such life-changing lottery prize had been sold at his small but now famous store. “We’re back on the map for a lottery win, big time,” he said with a blend of pride and astonishment.
“It’s been almost 20 years since we sold the winning EuroMillions ticket to Dolores McNamara, but this new win is just as magical. Most of our customers are local, and we’re absolutely thrilled for whoever it might be.”
The atmosphere at G O Stores has been electric since the announcement. “The whole community has been down to the shop today; there’s a great buzz about the place, and I’m sure the celebrations will continue for a good few weeks until the winner comes forward. Whoever they are, we wish them the very best of luck,” Brosnan added.
As of now, the fortunate winner of Saturday night’s life-altering prize has yet to come forward. National Lottery officials have issued an urgent appeal for all ticket holders to meticulously check their numbers from the draw on Saturday, April 20, in case their dreams have suddenly turned into a reality.
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The National Lottery advises the winner to take immediate steps to secure their prize. They should sign the back of their winning ticket and make prompt contact with the prize claims team on 1800 666 222 or via email at [email protected]. Arrangements will then be made for the winner to collect this transformative amount.
The excitement isn’t just confined to the winners and store owners; the local community is abuzz with speculation and joy. Many residents reminisce about the 2005 EuroMillions win, drawing comparisons and expressing pride in their neighborhood’s extraordinary run of luck.
“We’re living in a place that’s become known for making millionaires,” says one local resident. “It feels surreal to think that lightning has struck twice here.”
While the identity of the latest jackpot winner remains a mystery, the palpable sense of excitement and anticipation among the Garryowen community is expected to endure for several weeks. From the elderly who recall the original EuroMillions win to the younger generation who’ve only heard tales of that extraordinary day, everyone is swept up in the jubilant atmosphere.
The significance of these wins goes beyond the sheer monetary value—they instill a sense of hope and community spirit. Local businesses have reported an influx of visitors curious to get a glimpse of the now-famous G O Stores. The shop, which was always a cornerstone of the Garryowen community, has now become somewhat of a local landmark.
G O Stores, often described as a small neighborhood gem, embodies more than just fortunate circumstances. It represents the dreams and aspirations of common folk, transformed overnight by the unpredictable twist of fate. And as the celebrations continue, one thing is abundantly clear: Garryowen and its lucky lottery shop have once again made their mark, not just on the local community, but on the entire nation.
In this renewed sense of euphoria and local pride, the celebrations are far from over. Whether the winner steps forward today or in the coming weeks, their life—and the life of their community—will undoubtedly be changed forever.
