Sometimes all it takes is a bold move and a bit of luck to change everything. That’s exactly what happened to a Virginia plumber who turned a $100 gamble into nearly $300,000.
Meet Ty Tran, a Fairfax County dad who has been a loyal Pick 4 player for years. On August 23, after seeing the number 13 pop up in the daytime drawing, Tran decided to test his instincts for the evening round. Instead of playing it safe, he went all in — and it paid off in a way most people can only dream about.
A Risky Play with Big Rewards
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Tran bought 100 tickets — each costing $1 — with the same exact number combination: 1-3-1-3.
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He placed a 50/50 wager on each ticket, meaning half the bet was for the numbers to hit in perfect order, and the other half was for them to appear in any order.
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The odds of this working out? Just 1 in 10,000.
But when the drawing came around, lightning struck. Not once, not twice, but 100 times in a row. Each winning ticket brought in $2,900, adding up to a jaw-dropping $290,000 jackpot.
"I’m Still in Shock"
When lottery officials asked about the big win, Tran admitted he still couldn’t quite believe it. “I’m grateful for the win,” he said, sharing that he’s already thinking about how to put the money to good use.
For him, it’s not just about celebrating today — it’s about planning for tomorrow. Tran revealed that part of the winnings will go toward his kids’ college funds, making sure their futures are secure. He’s also planning to reinvest in his plumbing business with a new work van and upgraded tools.
A Local Dad Becomes a Lottery Legend
Fairfax County, which sits just west of Washington, D.C., is now buzzing with the story of the lucky plumber who beat the odds. It’s not every day that someone turns a hundred bucks into a six-figure payday in such a dramatic fashion. Tran’s win has quickly become the kind of tale neighbors swap over coffee — proof that sometimes ordinary people can get an extraordinary break.
The Excitement of the Lottery
Stories like Tran’s are part of why people keep trying their luck with games like Pick 4. It’s not just about the money — it’s the thrill of the chance, the “what if” moment that sparks when those numbers are drawn. Of course, not every player walks away with such a big win, but for some, just knowing it’s possible is enough to keep the excitement alive.
A Word of Caution
While this story is filled with good fortune, it’s also a reminder that gambling can be risky. Many people enjoy playing responsibly, but for others, it can become a serious problem. If you or someone close to you is showing signs of gambling addiction, there’s help available. You can call the National Gambling Hotline at 1-800-522-4700 or reach out to the National Council on Problem Gambling for resources and support.
Final Takeaway
At the end of the day, Ty Tran’s story is one of trust in his gut, a willingness to take a chance, and a bit of pure luck. He turned a $100 splurge into a life-changing prize — and he’s using it not only to invest in his business but also to create a brighter future for his family.
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