Calgary Stampede to honour Showband 50/50 winning ticket

CALGARY, AB (September 23, 2026) — After reviewing the circumstances surrounding the Showband 50/50 ticket purchased by Curtis Geiger at this year’s Calgary Stampede, the Stampede is pleased to honour his winning ticket and award him the $125,150 prize.
 
Mr. Geiger purchased the winning ticket for the July 11 Showband 50/50 draw and came forward after the 48-hour claim period associated with the draw had passed.
 
“We understand how the information available to Mr. Geiger could have caused confusion about the amount of time he had to claim his prize,” said Joel Cowley, CEO of the Calgary Stampede. “Mr. Geiger purchased the winning ticket, and based on our review, we believe the right thing to do is to honour that ticket and award him the prize.”
 
“I’ve been buying tickets for years and had never won anything like this, so finding out I had the winning ticket was an incredible feeling,” said Geiger. “I appreciate the Stampede taking another look at my situation and honouring the prize. This money opens up some exciting possibilities, from buying a home to taking a trip with my kids and my mom. I’m really happy to be able to celebrate this win.”
 
Stampede Lotteries are about more than the opportunity to win. They generate important funding that is reinvested in the community through the Calgary Stampede and its charitable partners. Proceeds from the Showband 50/50 support the Calgary Marching Show Band Association and opportunities for young people to develop as musicians, performers and leaders.
 
“Creating community impact through lotteries is only possible because people choose to participate,” said Cowley. “We want people to feel good about playing Stampede Lotteries and to have confidence in the experience. We believe honouring Mr. Geiger’s winning ticket is the right outcome.”
 
The Calgary Stampede will work with its lottery service provider to review and clarify all participant-facing information related to the Showband 50/50 claim process, so the requirements are communicated clearly and consistently going forward.

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About the Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We’re Greatest Together, we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and celebrates our western heritage, cultures and community spirit. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities. For more information, visit calgarystampede.com

About Stampede Lotteries

Stampede Lotteries have been a special part of the Calgary Stampede for more than 70 years, investing millions of dollars back into the community. Each year, proceeds are reinvested through the Calgary Stampede and our charitable partners at the Kinsmen Club of Calgary, Rotary Club of Calgary at Stampede Park and the Calgary Marching Show Band Association.

The success of Stampede Lotteries is made possible by dozens of passionate Stampede volunteers who bring the program to life each year and by the continued support of our community. For information, visit calgarystampedelotteries.ca