Josip Kulhanek, a retiree from Niagara Falls, has struck gold with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. (OLG) winning a prize of $25,000 a year for life in the Daily Grand lottery. The winning ticket, purchased at Circle K on McLeod Road, matched all five main numbers in the March 4th draw.
Reflecting on the moment he found out he won, Kulhanek shared, “I was at the store when I decided to check my ticket. I thought the ticket checker said I had won $250, but the store clerk pointed out the additional zeros.”
His excitement was palpable as he visited the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto to claim his winnings. “I was shocked and speechless! The clerk reminded me to sign my ticket; he was so happy for me,” he added.
A long-time lottery player, Kulhanek has been participating in OLG games since the days of Wintario (a long time ago). He enjoys playing Daily Grand and Daily Keno often using the Quick Pick feature to select his numbers.
This recent win marks his first significant victory. He was eager to share the good news with his family.
“Nobody knows I won. I’m a good secret keeper! I look forward to telling my family tonight when I get home,” he smiled.
With his newfound fortune, Kulhanek plans to make some improvements around his home, upgrade his vehicle, and share his good fortune with his children.
“When I realized I had won, it was like I’d been struck by lightning,” he chuckled. “It was a wonderful surprise that I have been patiently waiting for. This experience has been great, and it feels good to win! I may even celebrate with a trip to Croatia.”
The Daily Grand lottery offers a top prize of $1,000 a day for life for matching the five main numbers plus the Grand Number, while the second prize, which Kulhanek won, provides $25,000 a year for life for matching the five main numbers. The game costs $3 to play.
Niagara Falls Retiree Wins $25,000 a Year for Life in Lottery Draw, Plans to Share with Kids