A Windsor man's routine lottery ticket purchase has turned into a life-changing retirement boost after he won a $100,000 grand prize playing the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation's (OLG) Instant Plinko game.
A Surprise Win for an Auto Industry Worker
Christopher David, a resident of Windsor who works in the auto sector, discovered his fortune after purchasing a $5 Instant Plinko ticket. The unique game combines a scratch-off component with a digital experience, where players can watch an animated chip drop on a lottery terminal screen to reveal their prize.
"When I went to the store to watch my PLINKO Chip Drop, I discovered I was a grand prize winner," David recounted. Initially, the reality of the win didn't immediately sink in. "It hadn't fully hit me yet," he admitted during his visit to the OLG prize centre in Toronto in late December 2025 for a live Plinko event.
The Live Chip Drop That Sealed the Deal
With his wife by his side for support, David experienced the thrill of the game firsthand. At the Toronto prize centre, he dropped a physical Plinko chip onto a real game board, mirroring the popular television game show. The chip's final resting place determined his ultimate prize.
To his astonishment, it landed on the $100,000 slot. "I can't believe I won $100,000," David told OLG officials, comparing the euphoria to a birthday celebration but noting it felt "better."
Plans for a Fun-Filled Future
David already has clear plans for his sudden windfall. The core of his strategy focuses on long-term security. "I plan to put this money toward a fun-filled retirement," he stated, highlighting a prudent approach to the prize.
However, he also intends to allocate a portion for a personal treat, fulfilling a specific dream. "I also want to treat myself to a classic pinball machine," David added, showcasing a blend of sensible planning and well-deserved celebration.
The winning ticket was purchased at the Pioneer/On the Run convenience store located on Walker Road in Windsor. The Instant Plinko game offers players a dual experience of instant scratch play and the engaging digital chip drop, with the potential for select grand prize winners to participate in the live board event in Toronto.
Grand prizes for the Plinko game can range from $100,000 up to $500,000, making David's win a significant but not maximum award. His story adds to the roster of life-changing moments created by provincial lottery games, providing a festive financial surprise just before the holiday season.
