Delroy Shand, a 60-year-old automotive worker from Brampton, had a simple craving after a life of dedication: a really good steak. That craving became a celebration when he matched all seven Encore numbers in exact order, claiming a $1 million prize. For Shand, who immigrated to Canada in 1990, the lottery wasn’t about escaping work, but about securing a comfortable future for his family.
“I always say yes to Encore,” Shand recalled, a quiet thrill still evident in his voice. He wasn’t dreaming of lavish purchases or early retirement, but of a new home and the peace of mind to truly enjoy his life. The news sent ripples of joy through his family, a secret carefully held until the moment of revelation. “It feels fantastic! Today is a touching day for me,” he shared, the weight of the win settling into a profound sense of gratitude.
Meanwhile, in Brantford, Michael Walsh, a 65-year-old kitchen design consultant, experienced a different kind of lottery euphoria. After four decades of faithfully adding Encore to his tickets, a work break and a quick check of the OLP app revealed a $100,000 win. The initial shock gave way to a carefully maintained composure, as he navigated the rest of his workday, mind racing with the incredible news.
Walsh’s celebration was a masterclass in joyful anticipation. He and his wife shared a quiet moment over wine, the reveal sparking a priceless reaction of shock, joy, and disbelief. The news then blossomed into a heartwarming family dinner, complete with oversized balloons spelling out the winning amount. Watching his grandchildren hold the balloons, their faces alight with wonder, was a moment Walsh knew he would cherish forever. It wasn’t just about the money; it was about sharing the happiness with those he loved.
For Marcel Leclaire, a 73-year-old retired taxi driver from Sudbury, winning felt almost…familiar. His $88,888 Instant Lunar 8s prize was actually his *third* significant lottery win. A lifelong Bruins fan, he’d been drawn to the ticket by the number 88, the jersey number of his favorite player, David Pastrnak. He’d previously won $1 million in 2017 and an astonishing $3 million in 2025.
“Even though it was my third big win, the feeling was just as intense as the first,” Leclaire admitted, a testament to the enduring thrill of fortune. He shared the news with his brother, a moment of shared joy that underscored the power of good luck and family connection. He now looks forward to a new home, filled with new furniture, and the security of knowing his future is bright.
But the biggest story of all unfolded online. A single ticket purchased on OLG.ca held the winning numbers for a staggering $44-million Gold Ball Jackpot from the March 11 Lotto 6/49 draw. The winner, already notified by email, is poised to embark on a life transformed, a testament to the power of a single, lucky ticket.
