A London retiree had to pinch himself to make sure he wasn't dreaming after winning $25,000 a year for life.
Martin Beyer matched all five main numbers on a Daily Grand lottery ticket to win the second prize in the October 30 draw. The 62-year-old decided to take his winnings as a $500,000 lump sum payment, according to the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Commission (OLG).
Beyer, who has been a regular lottery player for the past three years, bought the ticket online.
"I choose the same numbers every time. I almost didn’t purchase a ticket for this draw but changed my mind last minute because it was a super draw,” Beyer said while picking up his winnings at the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto.
He went on to state that he was notified about his prize through an email from OLG.
"I thought ‘wow is this for real?’ I was double and triple checking to make sure," said Beyer. “It’s the kind of surprise that has you questioning reality. I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.”
Beyer said he has always had a carefree approach to life and intends to use his windfall to continue living a spontaneous lifestyle.
"I will enjoy and treat myself to some upgraded experiences along the way,” he said. “I’m also considering getting a dog to enjoy my increased quality of life with.”
