Sudbury Taxi Driver Defies Odds, Wins Lottery for Third Time
Sudbury, Ontario – Marcel Leclaire, a 73-year-old retired taxi driver from Sudbury, Ontario, is experiencing a stroke of luck that few can fathom. He recently won $88,888 playing Instant Lunar 8s, marking his third significant lottery win in just over nine years. The win is particularly noteworthy, as Leclaire revealed his ticket selection was inspired by Boston Bruins star forward David Pastrňák.
Leclaire’s lottery journey began in 2017 when he secured a $1 million prize playing Encore. He followed that up in 2025 with a $3 million windfall from an Instant Platinum ticket. This latest win, while smaller in monetary value, still left him “in complete shock,” according to a statement shared with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG).
A Fan’s Lucky Number
The connection to Pastrňák, whose jersey number is 88, proved to be a winning strategy for Leclaire. “I’m a fan of David Pastrňák and his jersey number is 88. I saw the number 88 on this ticket, so I decided to pick one up,” Leclaire explained while collecting his winnings at the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto. The Instant Lunar 8s ticket itself costs $5 per play and offers a top prize of $88,888.
For those unfamiliar, David Pastrňák is a highly regarded player in the National Hockey League (NHL), currently playing for the Boston Bruins. His offensive prowess and consistent performance have made him a fan favorite, and clearly, a source of good fortune for one dedicated supporter in Canada.
More Than Just Luck: A 40-Year Tradition
Leclaire’s repeated success isn’t simply down to luck; it’s the result of over four decades of consistent lottery play with the OLG. He’s been purchasing tickets for more than 40 years, demonstrating a long-term commitment to the possibility of a life-changing win. This latest victory underscores the enduring appeal of lottery games and the occasional, extraordinary stories they produce.
Plans for the Winnings
With three lottery wins now under his belt, Leclaire has clear plans for his latest prize. He intends to use the $88,888 to help purchase a new home and furnish it with new furniture. He likewise plans to save a portion of the winnings, demonstrating a pragmatic approach to his newfound wealth. Beyond the practicalities, Leclaire expressed a desire to travel, specifically to explore Western Canada and “meet new people.”
The winning ticket was purchased at Donovan Variety on Kathleen Street in Sudbury, a local convenience store that will undoubtedly see increased foot traffic from hopeful lottery players. The odds of winning any prize in the Instant Lunar 8s game are 1 in 3.61, according to OLG.
A Remarkable Run of Fortune
Leclaire’s story is a remarkable one, defying the incredibly long odds associated with winning the lottery, let alone winning it three times. His wins – $1 million in 2017, $3 million in 2025, and now $88,888 in 2026 – represent a significant financial boost and a testament to his long-held habit. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has ever dreamed of a lucky break.
While the lottery remains a game of chance, Leclaire’s experience serves as a reminder that sometimes, a little bit of luck – and perhaps a favorite hockey player – can go a long way. The OLG encourages responsible play and provides resources for those who may need assistance.
What’s next: Leclaire is expected to begin the process of purchasing a new home in the coming months. The OLG will continue to offer a variety of lottery games, with new draws and opportunities for players across Ontario.
