Rodeo Legend Roy Cooper Passes Away at 69
In a profound loss for the rodeo community, Roy Cooper, known as "Super Looper," passed away on April 29, 2025, following a devastating house fire. Born on November 13, 1955, in New Mexico, Cooper revolutionized tie-down roping and is widely regarded as one of the sport’s greatest champions.
Cooper, who made his mark at the National Finals Rodeo as a rookie in 1976 by clinching the World Championship, went on to secure an incredible eight world titles, including the PRCA Tie-Down World Champion titles from 1976 to 1984 and the All-Around World Champion in 1983. His exceptional talent enabled him to tie calves in an astonishing eight seconds, a benchmark that remains remarkable today.
The son of famed roper Dale "Tuffy" Cooper, Roy honed his skills in junior rodeo ranks, accumulating numerous championships before excelling in college rodeo at Southeastern Oklahoma State College. By 2000, he became the first cowboy to earn over $2 million in ProRodeo earnings.
Cooper’s legacy is cemented with multiple Hall of Fame inductions, including the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 1979 and the National Rodeo Hall of Fame in 1983. He was a dedicated family man, residing in Decatur, Texas, where he nurtured his three sons—Clint, Clif, and Tuf—who also found success in rodeo.
The impact of Cooper’s contributions to the sport is echoed across social media, with fellow cowboys and fans honoring him as "the greatest of all time." His charismatic presence and the endearing greeting, "Hey, baby," will be profoundly missed at rodeo events.
As the rodeo world mourns, the staff at Rodeo On SI extends heartfelt condolences to Roy’s family and friends.
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