Lottery players across California checked their tickets with excitement following the midday results of the Daily 3 and Daily Derby games on Thursday, May 8, 2025. While the larger multi-state games like Powerball and Mega Millions grab national headlines, these daily state games remain favorites among frequent players hoping for a quick payday.
Daily 3 Midday Results
The Daily 3 Midday game is a classic draw where players select three numbers between 0 and 9. The game offers multiple playstyles including Straight (exact match), Box (any order), and Straight/Box (combination of both).
Winning Numbers for May 8, 2025 (Midday Draw):
2 – 7 – 9
Players who selected the numbers in the exact order (Straight) could win up to $500 on a $1 wager, depending on their play type. Even players who matched the numbers in any order (Box) stood a chance to pocket a smaller, yet rewarding prize.
Daily 3 draws take place twice daily — once at midday and again in the evening — providing two chances to win every day.
Daily Derby Results
The Daily Derby is one of the more unique and entertaining lottery games offered in California, combining elements of horse racing and number selection. Players pick three horses to finish 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, as well as a race time.
Daily Derby Winning Horses for May 8, 2025:
- 1st Place: Gold Rush (Horse #6)
- 2nd Place: Hot Shot (Horse #2)
- 3rd Place: Big Ben (Horse #9)
Winning Race Time: 1:41.06
The game offers multiple prize tiers depending on how accurately a player picks the finishing order and race time. The top prize, known as the Grand Prize, is awarded to players who pick all three horses in the exact order and match the race time exactly.
Daily Derby is drawn once a day and is beloved for its fun theme and potential for high payouts on relatively small bets.
Checking Tickets and Claiming Prizes
Players can check their tickets at authorized lottery retailers, through the official California Lottery app, or on the state lottery’s website. Winnings of up to $599 can be claimed directly from retailers, while higher amounts must be claimed via a lottery district office or mail-in process.
As always, winners are advised to sign the back of their tickets and keep them in a secure place until they can claim their prize.
FAQ’s:
1. What is the top prize for California Daily 3?
The top prize is $500 for a $1 Straight play, where all three numbers are matched in exact order.
2. How does the Daily Derby game work?
Players choose three horses to finish in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, plus a race time. Prizes are based on how accurately those selections match the draw.
3. When are the California Lottery draws held?
Daily 3 is drawn twice daily (midday and evening). Daily Derby is drawn once a day.
4. Where can I check California Lottery results?
Results are available at lottery retailers, through the California Lottery app, and on the official website.
5. Can I play California Lottery games online?
At this time, most California Lottery draw games must be played in person at authorized retailers.
