Forty-nine Quebecers are now millionaires after winning a share of a $55-million Lotto Max jackpot. Some of them only learned the news when Loto-Québec contacted them, with reactions ranging from laughter and disbelief to tears. Most of the new millionaires didn’t know each other, but they had all purchased at least one share of the winning Formule groupe ticket on the Loto-Québec website. On Tuesday, the winners gathered at Loto-Québec’s head office in Montreal to receive their share of the prize money. The 49 jackpot winners come from 12 different regions across the province, from the Outaouais to the Côte-Nord. Laurentians resident François B. said he purchased his ticket just minutes before the draw and checked the results the following morning. “My heart skipped a beat!” he said. He added that he plans to buy a more luxurious vehicle and spoil his children. ‘It’s hard to believe’ Another winner, Côte-Nord resident Jacques V., said he became emotional upon discovering his win. “I had two sleepless nights. It’s hard to believe, but it feels good.” Loto-Québec said it was the first time in its history that it had handed out so many cheques worth more than $1 million in a single day. “It’s incredible to think that 49 families here in Quebec will enjoy part of this jackpot. Loto-Québec generates significant spinoffs for the community, in addition to the money paid out to lottery winners,” said Isabelle Jean, executive vice-president and COO of Lottery Games at Loto-Québec. “This summer alone, dozens of Quebecers shared jackpots of $25 million, $40 million and $55 million, becoming millionaires in the process. We’re so proud of this contribution.” According to Loto-Québec, the online Formule groupe allows players to purchase one or more shares in a lottery group and pool them with those of other group members.
