Calgary LOTTO 6/49 winner waited months to claim $1M!

Laszlo Kovacs is not a fan of winter weather…. So much so that he put off claiming his $1 million winning LOTTO 6/49 ticket for months to avoid driving in it! 

The Calgarian said he was thrilled to discover the November 20 win when he scanned the ticket in-store in December. 

“I couldn’t believe it,” he smiled. “I was jumping up and down inside!” 

“But it was very cold,” he continued. “I don’t like to drive far when it’s like that.” 

Kovac excitedly sat on his ticket for months, waiting for the weather to warm up. 

“I’m glad I kept the receipt!” he joked when he finally claimed his prize. “It helped me remember all the details months later.” 

Kovacs said he’s not planning to blow the new winnings on anything extravagant. 

“I was raised to save my money,” he explained. “I may go on a trip though; I would love to go to Croatia!” 

His other dreams include: catching a soccer game overseas. 

“I do cheer for a lot of football [soccer] teams, and I’d like to see one if I can!” he said. 

The Calgary winner said he’s still flabbergasted by the windfall. 

“I still can’t wrap my head around it—it definitely makes life easier!” he smiled. 

Kovacs also will enjoy sharing his winnings with his beloved cat Muci (MOOT-zee). 

“He is already spoiled!” Kovacs laughed. “He doesn’t need any more toys – but will probably get some!” 

Kovacs purchased his winning LOTTO 6/49 ticket from Sandstone Pharmacy located at 4-3525 26 Avenue SE in Calgary. He won his prize in the Gold Ball Draw on November 20 with the selection: 31765145-01, a white ball.

Photo and release available for download below.