John Haydu caused some commotion while shopping for groceries, as he learned he scored $1 million from the May 24, 2024 Lotto Max draw.
“I was at the Maple Ridge Freshco,” recalled Haydu. “I usually don’t carry my wallet, but I happened to have it with me and there was a lotto booth at the entrance. I decided to check my tickets, and my first ticket was the winner. I didn’t even shop! It caused quite the buzz at Freshco.”
The Maple Ridge resident called his daughters to share the news of his win.
“None of them answered so I texted them to call me right away. When they called me, they thought I was joking so I showed them a picture of the printout!”
Haydu plans to celebrate his win with friends and family and pay off his mortgage. Additionally, he has a few travel ideas.
“I’ve always wanted to do a cruise, maybe Alaska. I am also a big Buffalo Bills fan so I would love to go watch a game in their home stadium.”
B.C.’s latest millionaire is also retiring at the end of the month. “This is perfect timing.”
His final thoughts on winning the lottery?
“It’s absolutely unbelievable. I’m speechless. I want to spend time with my family and grandkids or start a family tradition of an annual trip!”
Haydu purchased the winning ticket at Save-On-Foods on London Avenue in Mission.
So far in 2024, B.C. lottery players have redeemed more than $111 million from Lotto Max. Lotto Max is a nationwide lottery game drawn on Tuesdays and Fridays after 7:30 p.m. (PST).
Players can purchase tickets at lottery retailers or at PlayNow.com. Winning numbers and group release forms can be found online at www.bclc.com. Players can check their lottery tickets anytime, anywhere on iOS and Android devices. Learn more about the BCLC Lotto! App here.
BCLC offers socially responsible gambling entertainment while generating income to benefit all British Columbians. Remember, play for fun, not to make money. For more information, visit GameSense.com.
