Golfer’s son scoops €9m Lotto long shot

THE Smyth family are used to long shots, given that the father of the household is former Ryder Cup vice-captain Des Smyth.

However, yesterday the famous golfer’s son Greg beat all the odds to win the Lotto jackpot worth €9,426,636 in Wednesday night’s draw.

The 24 year old, who is studying for a horticulture degree in Blanchardstown, bought the €4 quick pick Lotto ticket at Newfoundwell service station in Drogheda.

He discovered he was the winner of the eighth largest jackpot in the history of the game yesterday morning when he checked his ticket on Aertel over breakfast.

“I feel like I’m in the middle of a dream at the moment. I telephoned my parents who are in the US as my dad is playing in the Champions’ Tour in Oregon today,” said Greg.

“They were delighted, naturally. I have no definite plans for the win. I’m going to take things easy and have a holiday later in the year.”

The jackpot had rolled nine times since July 12.

The largest ever jackpot was won earlier this year by the Dan Morrissey group from Carlow when they won €18,963,441.

Des Smyth played in the Ryder Cup team in 1979 and 1981 and was vice captain of the winning European team at the K Club in 2006.