Calgary Stampede to honor $125K lottery prize after initial refusal

The Calgary Stampede has reversed its decision to deny a $125,150 lottery prize to Curtis Geiger. Geiger had originally been told he could not claim his Showband 50/50 winnings because the 48-hour claim period following the July 11 draw had expired.

Stampede CEO Joel Cowley stated that the organization decided to honor the ticket to ensure participants feel confident in the lottery experience. Cowley acknowledged that the wording of the policy, which stated prizes ‘may be claimed’ within 48 hours, may have caused confusion regarding whether the deadline was mandatory.

Geiger expressed gratitude for the reconsideration, noting the funds would allow for significant personal milestones such as purchasing a home. Proceeds from the 50/50 draws support the Calgary Marching Show Band Association and opportunities for young musicians. The Stampede plans to work with its service provider to clarify future claim processes.