A retired St. Mary’s County man is celebrating a $50,000 lottery win after purchasing a 20X the Cash scratch-off ticket on a whim at a California convenience store.
The longtime player stopped at ABC Liquors at 22741 Three Notch Road in the St. Mary’s County community of California while searching for a short line to play Racetrax. Growing impatient, he switched lines and bought four 20X the Cash tickets for $5 each instead.
He scratched the tickets inside the store. When one displayed the message “Take to Lottery,” he asked the retailer to scan it for verification. That’s when he learned he had won $50,000.
“I felt good hearing that!” the winner said during his May 21 visit to Maryland Lottery headquarters in Baltimore to claim the prize.
The win comes at a meaningful time for the recent retiree. He said the unexpected money will help make retirement easier by allowing him to pay off the remaining balance on his mortgage. He has already shared the news with several family members, many of whom also enjoy playing Lottery games.
The winner is a regular Maryland Lottery player who typically plays Racetrax and Keno weekly. He occasionally tries scratch-offs, and this change of pace paid off. He told Lottery staff he has no plans to stop playing.
“At my age it’s the only entertainment you might get,” he said. “Maybe next time I want to skip the line, I end up with a big win.”
The 20X the Cash game launched in January 2026 with seven $50,000 top prizes. This win leaves three remaining unclaimed. ABC Liquors receives a $500 bonus for selling the winning ticket.
St. Mary’s County has seen several notable Lottery wins in recent years. The county’s mix of retirees, military families and working residents makes Lottery play a common form of entertainment and potential financial boost. For many local retirees, a win like this can provide important relief from fixed incomes and rising costs in Southern Maryland.
The California community, located in the southern part of St. Mary’s County near the Patuxent River, is home to a growing number of retirees and families. Local retailers like ABC Liquors serve as gathering spots where residents stop for everyday needs and a chance to play Lottery games.
Maryland Lottery proceeds support public education, local programs and other state initiatives. Since its inception in 1973, the Lottery has contributed billions of dollars to Maryland’s general fund, with a significant portion benefiting public schools in counties like St. Mary’s.
The winner said he plans to use the money to create special memories with his family this summer. He encouraged other players to keep trying, noting that persistence can sometimes lead to life-changing results.
Prizes of $25,000 or more must be claimed in person at Maryland Lottery headquarters in Baltimore by appointment. Winners have 182 days from the date of the drawing to claim their prizes.
