LANSING, May 5, 1999 – A Sawyer man reeled in a big one when he recently collected the $200,000 top prize in the Lottery’s "Big Bucks" instant game!

The 60-year-old winner, who requested anonymity, said he has been playing Michigan Lottery games for the past 26 years.  He added that he really enjoys playing The Big Game, Michigan Lotto and, of course, the instant games!

"I scratched the ticket off immediately after I purchased it," he said.  "I knew right away that I had won something – I just didn’t realize how much!  I thought I had won $2,000 until I had someone else look at the ticket.  She said ‘You won $200,000 – not $2,000!’  I couldn’t believe it! I was so surprised."

Prior to turning the winning ticket in at Lottery headquarters in Lansing, the lucky man kept it with him at all times to ensure the ticket’s safety.  The avid fisherman and bowler said he plans to invest his winnings for his upcoming retirement.

The winning ticket was purchased at Welcome Inn, 5721 Saint Joseph Ave., in Stevensville.  For other Lottery hopefuls, the winner offered the following words of encouragement: "Have faith – keep on playing!"

"Big Bucks" is just one of many Michigan Lottery instant tickets available at more than 9,300 Michigan Lottery retailers statewide.

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