Calgary resident Curtis Geiger experienced a series of highs and lows this week. After discovering that the 50/50 ticket he bought at the Calgary Stampede rodeo on July 11 was a winning ticket valued at $125,150, Geiger was ecstatic but also incredulous. The news left him trembling with excitement as he sought confirmation from a colleague to ensure he was reading the numbers correctly. Geiger immediately reached out to the Calgary Stampede to claim his prize.
However, his elation was short-lived as he received a disappointing response hours later. In an email shared with CBC News, the Stampede informed Geiger that all prizes for the Show Band 50/50 draw had either been claimed or the 48-hour window to claim the prize had lapsed, leaving him ineligible for the winnings. This news came as a significant blow to Geiger, who expressed frustration at himself for missing the deadline and directed some of his ire towards the organization.
The Calgary Stampede, in a statement to CBC News, clarified that the Showband 50/50 draw operates under a lottery license issued by Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC). The Stampede emphasized the importance of adhering to the rules and timelines stipulated in the lottery regulations. According to the Stampede, Geiger contacted them after the 48-hour claim period had expired, rendering him ineligible for the prize.
Despite the Stampede’s explanation, Geiger highlighted that the ticket did not explicitly mention the time frame for claiming the prize and pointed out a discrepancy in the wording on the lottery website. He argued that the term “may” in the rules implied a choice rather than an obligation to claim the prize within 48 hours.
Geiger also criticized the brevity of the 48-hour window, questioning the fairness of the timeframe and expressing concerns about where the unclaimed prize money goes. The Stampede clarified that unclaimed funds are allocated to the Stampede and the Calgary Marching Show Band Association as per AGLC guidelines.
Legal expert Farhad Shekib from Toronto suggested that Geiger could potentially pursue a breach of contract case based on the clarity and fairness of the 48-hour window. Shekib emphasized the importance of transparent communication regarding claim deadlines to ticket purchasers. Geiger indicated that he is exploring legal options and aims to raise awareness to prevent similar situations from befalling others.