Shane Gustafson and his wife, Connie, smile after collecting their $300,000 Peppermint Payout prize.

A lucky feeling led a Benzie County man to win a $300,000 prize playing the Michigan Lottery’s Peppermint Payout instant game.

Shane Gustafson, 48, bought the winning ticket at the Food Castle of Grand Blanc, located at 3035 East Grand Blanc Road in Grand Blanc.

“My wife and I were buying groceries and I was thinking about buying a Peppermint Payout ticket, but didn’t,” said Gustafson. “When we got to the car, something told me to go back in and buy a ticket and I’m really glad I did!

Winning Ticket

“Winning will make our life easier. We’re looking forward to paying off our debt and taking a nice vacation!”

Gustafson visited Lottery headquarters Wednesday to claim his big prize.

Players have won more than $12 million playing Peppermint Payout, which launched in October. Each $5 ticket offers players a chance to win prizes ranging from $5 up to $300,000. More than $4 million in prizes remain, including one $300,000 top prize and two $1,000 prizes.

Lottery instant games may be purchased at 11,000 retailers across the state.

In 2017, Lottery players won more than $960 million playing instant games.