A retiree from Fort Washington was all smiles after discovering he won $50,000 playing Pick 5 on Aug. 27 and matching a straight bet combination in the evening drawing.
“I was stunned and shocked,” he said Aug. 31 when he claimed the prize at Lottery headquarters in Baltimore.
The winner, who has been playing the Lottery for more than 15 years, said he enjoys playing for fun with family and friends, as well as for the thrill of chasing a big win. While Pick 5 is his favorite game, he occasionally plays Pick 3 and Pick 4.
Pick 5 became his go-to after playing one day and winning a few hundred dollars. When he plays, he has various numbers in mind — usually important dates or numbers that stand out to him throughout his day.
“I scanned my ticket using the Lottery app. I was so happy I couldn’t believe I won,” he said.
He immediately called his wife to verify. The couple has since celebrated the win with close friends and family.
Since the win, the player has carefully considered how to use his prize. He plans to pay any outstanding debts and save most of his windfall for “rainy day.”
Looking ahead, the winner shared he is excited to play new numbers and hopes to win again.
The winning ticket was sold at the Exxon gas station at 7713 Allentown Road in Fort Washington. The retailer receives a $500 bonus.
