A Pasadena woman took advantage of a second shot at winning some money.
State lottery officials announced Friday that Heidy Felipe recently won $40,000 through the California Lottery’s 2nd Chance Bonus Draw, a promotional contest that gives players another opportunity to win after their original ticket doesn’t hit the jackpot.
“When I saw the email, I couldn’t believe it,” Felipe told lottery officials. “The next day, I went to the Lottery office, where they confirmed it was real, and I was speechless.”
Felipe said she used her winnings to pay off her car.
“I play often, but this was my first time winning,” she added. “It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”
The California Lottery’s 2nd Chance program is open to players of SuperLotto Plus and Fantasy 5 draw games and those with non-winning Scratchers. Tickets can be entered through a personal Lottery account online or via the California Lottery App.
In addition to Felipe’s win, other players have recently claimed major Scratchers prizes. Meber Hawara scored the $10 million top prize from a Super Bonus Scratchers ticket purchased at Sunrise Liquor & Market in Rancho Cucamonga.
Rosario Juarez De Callejas won $1 million from a $1 million Ultimate Cash ticket bought at Fresh Donuts in Inglewood. Lastly, Marco Carillo claimed a $1 million prize from a Loteria Grande Scratchers ticket purchased at Corbin Express Wash in Northridge.
Their participation in the California Lottery also supports state public education funding.
Ticket sales from draw games, like Powerball, Mega Millions, SuperLotto Plus and Fantasy 5, and unclaimed lottery winnings are given to California public schools.
