In the last year, the Chase the Ace jackpot has grown to a million dollars, attracting what have become overwhelming crowds to the small town of Inverness, N.S. Now, organizers say the wildly popular contest will have a winner by Oct. 3.
After a one-week hiatus, organizers announced that the contest will return with a draw on Sept. 26.
If the winning ace of spades isn't selected on that day, then the contest will have a day of draws on Oct. 3. If necessary, organizers will draw multiple tickets that day, until a winner finally finds the jackpot-winning ace.
"If they don't (draw the ace), they will get a consolation prize of $25,000 and then another ticket is drawn," organizer Cameron MacQuarrie told CTV Atlantic on Wednesday. "And we’ll continue that until the ace of spades is taken from the deck."
Many Chase the Ace players the support the plan, saying it will help officials deal with the huge crowds that have been flocking to the small town for the popular game. Previous draws have attracted thousands of people to Inverness, a town of 1,500.
"To avoid some of the congestion and get that $1 million or more out there – I think that's a superb idea," Ruth Skinner said.
Previously, the contest had just one ticket and card draw each week. But as the fundraiser exploded in popularity, the small town was overwhelmed by crowds of people hoping to win.
After taking the time to consult with the RCMP, Emergency Health Services, the Inverness Fire Department, and the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure renewal, contest organizers have made the changes they say are necessary to ensure public safety.
Organizers also announced that they will add an additional venue for ticket sales and parking at the Broad Cove Concert Grounds.
There are currently six cards left in the Chase the Ace draw, and the next jackpot is estimated to exceed one million dollars.
Proceeds from the fundraiser benefit the Inverness Cottage Workshop, a non-profit that supports adults with disabilities, and the Inverness Royal Canadian Legion branch.
With a report from CTV Atlantic's Ryan MacDonald
