Chase-the-Ace draw continues

GOULDS, N.L. — The chase for the elusive ace of spades will continue in Newfoundland after huge crowds descended upon a community on the outskirts of St. John’s for a chance to win the $1.42-million jackpot. George Chaulk, of Goulds, N.L., had the lucky ticket to draw a card Wednesday night, but he drew the nine of spades.

But he will not be leaving empty-handed — the consolation prize is $185,014. His wife, Christa Chaulk, says the ticket was part of a work pool. Once it’s divided among her husband and his 10 colleagues, the couple will have a little over $16,000, which she says will go toward a family vacation. There are now 10 cards left, and the draw is expected to take place again next week at the St. Kevin’s Parish church hall in Goulds, N.L., with an even bigger jackpot. Tens of thousands of people turned out for Wednesday night’s draw despite the soggy weather, with the lineup to buy tickets actually starting on Tuesday night.