Rodeo legend Roy Cooper tragically passed away in a house fire in Texas at the age of 69. The news of his death has left the rodeo community and his fans in shock and mourning. Roy Cooper, also known as “The Super Looper,” was a renowned champion cowboy, and his youngest son, Tuf Cooper, who is a 4x World Champion Cowboy, shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook, expressing the family’s disbelief and devastation over the tragic loss.
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The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) also confirmed the sad news, as local authorities responded to the fire incident on a Tuesday evening. Unfortunately, Cooper’s body was discovered inside the residence shortly after the fire was reported. An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the fire that claimed the life of this legendary figure in the rodeo world.
Cooper was celebrated for his exceptional roping skills, earning him the nickname “Super Looper,” and he was honoured with induction into the PRORODEO Hall of Fame in 1979. His remarkable achievements in rodeo, including winning the PRCA All-Around World Title in 1983 and securing rodeo’s Triple Crown, solidified his legacy as one of the sport’s greats. In a recent podcast appearance, Cooper humbly reflected on his career and the impact he had on the rodeo community.
Throughout his career, Cooper’s talents and achievements set him apart as a true game-changer in tie-down roping. His contribution to the sport was unparalleled, and he became the first cowboy to earn $2 million in ProRodeo history. His dedication and passion for rodeo were unwavering, as reflected in his interview where he expressed his attachment to a special buckle he had won – a token he cherished and rarely parted with.
As news of Cooper’s passing spread, tributes poured in from his colleagues, friends, and fans. Country music star George Strait, a close friend of Cooper, expressed his grief and shared heartfelt words in memory of the rodeo icon. The National Cowboy Museum also paid tribute to Cooper, acknowledging his significant impact on tie-down roping and his milestone achievements that shaped the sport’s history.
In recognition of his legacy, Cooper will be posthumously honoured with the Ty Murray Top Hand Award at the upcoming PBR Heroes & Legends event. This gesture underscores the enduring respect and admiration that the rodeo community holds for Cooper and his contributions to the sport. As the rodeo world mourns the loss of a true legend, the memory of Roy Cooper will live on through his indelible mark on the sport he loved and dedicated his life to.
Roy Cooper’s passing has left a void in the rodeo community, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations of rodeo enthusiasts and athletes. His extraordinary career and achievements have cemented his place in rodeo history, and he will be remembered for his talent, sportsmanship, and unwavering passion for the sport. As the rodeo world pays tribute to a true icon, Roy Cooper’s spirit and legacy will endure, serving as a beacon of inspiration for future rodeo champions and fans alike.