QUINCY (CBS) – A Quincy man who scratched a winning Mass. Lottery Texas Hold ‘Em ticket, and will have the chance to take part in a Texas Hold ‘Em tournament with a $10 million grand prize, says he’s tired of waiting.

Quincy’s Nick Zeogas is one of 501 lucky ticket holders who will eventually get the chance to participate in the tournament with a $10 million grand prize.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030′s Mike Macklin reports

But, the 78-year-old Zeogas says his initial excitement has worn off since he scratched his winning ticket seven years ago. At this point, he says he’s worried he might die before he gets the chance to play.

“I said if I die, then what? They said, ‘well you won’t need the money,’” he told WBZ NewsRadio 1030.

Zeogas’ statement may sound like hyperbole. But already, four players have passed away.

The lottery says it will allow family members to take those people’s places in the tournament.

The Lottery says sales were not as good as anticipated and that it needs another 59 scratch ticket winners to fill out the field for the poker game.

“We understand the frustration. We’re anticipating that this tournament will happen in the fall,” a lottery spokesperson said. “We’re hoping that all participants, all 560 will walk away with smiles on their faces and significant cash prizes.”