Canadian plans to try expensive new hobby after $55-million lottery win

After a shocking $55-million lottery win, one lucky Canadian said he’s ready to get into a pretty pricey new hobby.

François Masse lives in Hawkesbury, Ont., and is a retiree who spent his career in education. As he was leaving the store one day, he remembered that he still had a Free Play ticket to redeem.

“I added Encore for $1, put the ticket in my wallet, and went on about my day,” he said.

He recalled that he had forgotten about the three tickets in his wallet until a few days later, when he decided to check them using the OLG app.

“The first ticket earned me a Free Play, the second ticket won me $40, and the last one was the big one!” he said. “I saw the ‘Big Winner’ message on the screen and went numb with disbelief — it was like the world stopped for a minute!”

Masse said it was “an out-of-body experience” discovering that he had won the Lotto Max jackpot in the Jan. 9 draw — he was now $55 million richer. He said he paced around the house for five minutes in complete disbelief until he finally called OLG to start the prize claim process.

“I just looked out my window and thought about what this meant for me and my family — my kids, my mom, and my brothers. I was overwhelmed with gratitude,” he shared. “It took about three hours to process the news before I called my family to tell them. Hearing the words ‘I won $55 million‘ come out of my mouth felt even more unreal!”

Despite the happy but very emotional news, he said his family flat-out thought he was joking at first. He said they thought he was “committed” to his prank.

He wanted to find a unique way to tell his kids the news in person, so he came up with a story about giving them late Christmas presents.

“I told them I had a gift on back order for them, and I bought them each an espresso machine as a ruse,” he said. He then asked his children to scan the ticket themselves using the app, leaving them in shock.

Masse recalled that “there were a lot of happy tears.”

While at the OLG Prize Centre to pick up his cheque, he said he’s already planning dream vacations that had previously been out of reach. In addition to family trips, he said he wants to go to Formula 1 races around the world, tour NFL stadiums, and take some golf trips. He said there might also be a new home or car in his future.

In addition to his many interests, he’s also excited about a new hobby.

“I’ve also always loved horses. I never actually rode any, but I bought a stable,” he said. “So when people ask if I’m into horses — well, I guess I am now!”

Masse said he wants to make sure thathis family is well taken care of.

“Legacy is important to me. I want to make sure I have the right advisors to guide me before making any big decisions,” he stated. “This win isn’t just for me — it’s for my family and the legacy we’ll leave behind.”

Masse bought his winning ticket at Asselin’s Your Independent Grocer on Cameron Street in Hawkesbury.

All forms of gambling, including the lottery, involve risk and outcomes are based on chance. Individuals are strongly advised to gamble responsibly. If you are experiencing any signs of gambling-related issues, check out these resources.