Written By WENDY GABREK

When Trillium Ford Lincoln Ltd. (Alliston & Shelburne) ran its first annual ‘Ultimate Hockey Experience' contest, they had no idea the outcome of the draw would be better than the prize itself.

Throughout the months of November and December, anyone who purchased, leased, financed or factory ordered a new, used or Certified Pre-Owned vehicle was entered for a chance to win one grand prize – two tickets to the January 14th Toronto Maple Leafs game (versus the New Jersey Devils) – purchased through the Alliston Rotary Club auction. The winner also received: a meet and greet with a Leafs coach, tour of the ScotiaBank Arena, tour of the home and visitor dressing rooms, chance to watch both pre-game warm ups, and $200 cash.

On the day of the draw, Brian White of Flesherton was announced as the lucky winner. But Brian had purchased the F-350 on behalf of South East Gray Support Services – an organization that helps adults facing exceptional situations to live independently with some assistance. Fitted with a plough, the truck will be used to clear residential driveways.

Brian knew he couldn't keep the prize for himself, and passed the honour along to Support Services client, Hazel Johnston and her caregiver, Mark Worthington.

Hazel, a long time hockey fan, has been watching the game since she was a little girl, and has been in need of support services for the past 30-years. She faces emotional issues that require a little TLC.

“I can see my dad jumping up and down if he was here to see me win,” said Hazel of her now deceased father.

Feeling like a VIP, Hazel was also gifted a Toronto Maple Leafs official jersey, bearing the name of her favourite player – Matthews – as presented by Trillium Ford Lincoln owners Eric Vant Spyker and Len Rice.

With her love for the game and her team reinvigorated, Hazel says she plans to move her bedroom curtain – a Leafs banner – to the front of her house, to hang in her front window for all to see.

Trillium Ford owners say they couldn't be happier with the results of the contest, and believe their couldn't be a better, or more worthy winner.

For more information visit www.trilliumford.com