A handshake in 1992 signed an agreement between two great friends: Joe Feeney and Tom Cook. If one of them were lucky enough to win a jackpot in the lottery, they would share the money. Almost three decades later, luck smiled at Cook, who kept his word.
Therefore, the pair will share the Powerball jackpot, a lottery promoted in 44 US states. The total amount was US $ 22 million, approximately R $ 115 million at the current price. In addition, the chance of winning this prize is only one in 292 million attempts.
The friends decided to pocket the amount of US $ 16.7 million in cash, instead of waiting for the payment in installments. With the deduction of the fees, each will keep US $ 5.7 million.
According to the BBC, Feeney said he was surprised to be told by Cook about the award. The two reside in Menomonie, Wisconsin. “He called me and I said, ‘Are you kidding me?'” Said the fisherman.
Plans for the lottery prize
Cook decided to retire after winning the lottery, while his friend had already retired. The goal of both is to spend more time with family members and travel a lot. “We can go after what we want. I can’t think of a better way to retire,” said Cook.
The jackpot winner spent just $ 2 when buying the lottery ticket in a draw made last month. In March last year, another Wisconsin resident won the $ 768 million jackpot.
In addition, the person responsible for the lottery where Cook placed his bet celebrated the victory. “Congratulations to Tom, Joe and their families. The power of friendship and a handshake paid off. I’m thrilled for them. Their lucky day has come,” said Cindy Polzin in a statement.
