Iowa Lottery Taps More Than 1,300 Participants to Break World Record for Most Tickets Scratched Simultaneously

Iowa Lottery Participants Set World Record with Massive Scratch-off Event

In an impressive feat of coordination and community spirit, over 1,300 people gathered in Iowa recently to attempt a Guinness World Record for the most people scratching scratch-off tickets simultaneously. The event, organised by the Iowa Lottery, took place on August 14 at the Iowa State Fair, attracting participants eager to be a part of history.

The Iowa Lottery’s call for participants drew a crowd of approximately 1,380 eager Iowans, all over the age of 21, to the Elwell Family Park at the fairgrounds. Each participant was given a free Scratch, Match & Win! ticket to join in the attempt to break the existing record. An official adjudicator from Guinness World Records was present to oversee the event and ensure all guidelines were followed.

Not only was the record-breaking attempt a fun and engaging activity, but it also came with the chance for participants to win big. The Iowa Lottery announced that all attendees would be entered into a drawing after the event, with a grand prize of $40,000 up for grabs, along with two additional prizes of $4,000 each. Katherine Blank Pierce of Des Moines was revealed as the winner of the top prize, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.

With a mix of anticipation and amusement, participants eagerly scratched away at their tickets, hoping to secure a win while also contributing to the collective effort to set a new world record. Ultimately, the Iowa Lottery’s initiative paid off, with a total of 1,380 individuals taking part and surpassing the previous record by an impressive 830 people.

The previous record holder, the Totalizator Sportowy Lotto in Warsaw, Poland, set the bar in 2023 with 550 people participating in a similar scratch-off event. However, the Iowa Lottery’s record-breaking attempt was not just about surpassing numbers; it was also a symbolic celebration of the lottery’s 40th anniversary.

Guinness World Records adjudicator Michael Empric confirmed the successful breaking of the record, marking a significant milestone for the Iowa Lottery and its participants. The event not only brought the community together for a shared experience but also highlighted the excitement and enthusiasm surrounding such unique and engaging activities.

As participants left the event, some with cash prizes and others with only the thrill of being part of a record-breaking moment, the sense of camaraderie and achievement lingered in the air. Participant Anne Vuong captured the spirit of the event when she joked, “If you play a game, you lose some, you win some,” reflecting the light-hearted and jovial atmosphere that permeated the gathering.

In conclusion, the Iowa Lottery’s successful world record attempt showcased the power of community involvement, fun, and a shared sense of accomplishment. With over 1,300 participants coming together to scratch their way into history, the event stood as a testament to the joy and excitement that can be found in collective endeavours. The Iowa Lottery’s 40th-anniversary celebration was truly a moment to remember, bringing smiles, laughter, and a new world record to the state.