Man wins $40 million; plans to fund children’s university education

A Manitoba man is $40 million richer after winning the Lotto Max draw that took place just about two weeks ago.

Matthew Tannas, a big-game guide and firefighter-paramedic from Hamiota, Manitoba, has won $40 million from the Lotto Max draw held on Dec. 3.

He purchased the winning ticket in Alberta through the Lotto Spot app after noticing the $80 million jackpot. The winning numbers were 9, 14, 21, 26, 29, 32, and 41.

When Tannas checked his ticket, he could hardly believe it. “I had to double-check,” he said in a recent news release.

He shared the news with his wife, who initially thought it was $40,000, adding that there might have been a few tears.

Tannas’s $40 million share was split with a winner in Quebec, making this the fourth-largest lottery prize in Manitoba’s history.

With his newfound fortune, Tannas plans to support his children’s university education, buy them new vehicles and treat himself to a new truck. He also hopes to visit his sister in Nova Scotia for the first time.

Tannas joked that his win could bring an influx of new residents to his town.

The next draw is on Tuesday, December 24, with the prize pool estimated at $10 million.