'I couldn't stop vibrating': B.C. man wins $5M Lotto 6/49 jackpot, plans to give most of it to family
'I woke him up at 7 a.m. to show him. He was a bit dazed at first but was really excited for me once I showed him I won,' said Woods.
That early morning knock was just the beginning of a life-changing week. While the shock of becoming a millionaire was still setting in, Woods says his biggest excitement comes from being able to support the people he loves. He plans to give most of the prize money to his kids and siblings.
'I'm most happy about giving the money to my kids,' he said while claiming his prize at BCLC's Kamloops office.
Beyond his immediate family, Woods kept the win quiet for several days. He only began to share the news more widely while driving to claim the prize, making a few phone calls to friends along the way.
The winning moment happened right at home the morning after the draw. Woods scanned his ticket using BCLC's Lotto! App and was stunned when his numbers — 9, 15, 22, 24, 40, 49 — matched up.
'I thought, 'this can't be real,'' he said. 'I had to check it three times to make sure and once I realized the amount, I couldn't stop vibrating until that afternoon!'
Woods purchased the winning ticket at Shah Brothers Convenience Store on Westwood Drive in Prince George.
While he plans to give most of his winnings to family, he's also considering using a portion to buy a classic car or a truck.
'It feels amazing… it's life changing!' he said.
So far in 2025, B.C. lottery players have redeemed more than $16 million in Lotto 6/49 prizes.
Lotto 6/49 gives players a chance to win two jackpots every Wednesday and Saturday for $3 per play. The Classic Draw offers a fixed $5 million jackpot, while the Gold Ball Draw guarantees at least $1 million — or a growing jackpot that starts at $10 million and can climb past $60 million.
If you're looking to take a break from gambling, self-exclusion programs can be effective tools. See here for resources that are available across Canada.
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