Elderly Couple win $7.5-million lottery

A beaming Brockville, Ontario, couple, who are both almost 90, have entered Canada’s millionaire club after cashing in their Lotto/49 ticket from the Aug. 6 draw.

 

Victor and Thelma Hayes were still in disbelief yesterday but all smiles as they collected their oversized cheque for $7.5-million.

They have been married for 63 years and both turn 90 in a few weeks.

He has been playing the same numbers for years and won a $1,000 prize once and other free draws. But this time, Mr. Hayes bought a quick pick and hit the jackpot.

As for the money, other than some car shopping, Mr. and Mrs. Hayes aren’t sure how they’ll spend it.

“We plan on helping out our kids and maybe buy a Lincoln. I’ve never had one,” Mr. Hayes said.

According to the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Commission, 74 per cent of millionaire winners share the jackpot with family members and 65 per cent buy a car.

Teresa Roncon, a spokeswoman for the commission, said that while she’s unsure whether the Hayeses are the oldest individuals to win the lottery, they are likely the oldest couple to strike it rich in Ontario.