A Legend, A Father, A True Cowboy Spirit

The rodeo world is riding with heavy hearts this week as we say goodbye to one of the sport’s all-time greats — Roy Cooper, known by many as the Super Looper. A man whose roping rope carved history, whose grit inspired generations, and whose legacy will live on far beyond the chutes.

On April 29, 2025, Roy passed away at age 69 in a tragic house fire at his home in Decatur, Texas. His passing sent shockwaves through the western world — from world champions and arena announcers to small-town youth ropers who grew up hearing stories about his legendary career.

A Career That Changed the Game

Born in Hobbs, New Mexico, Roy Cooper didn’t just compete — he reshaped the tie-down roping event forever. Overcoming childhood asthma, he poured everything into his craft, and by the time he hit the professional circuit, it was clear the rodeo world had never seen anyone quite like him.

They called him the Super Looper for a reason.

• 8-time PRCA World Champion

• 1983 Triple Crown Winner – All-Around, Tie-Down Roping, and Steer Roping

• First cowboy to surpass $2 million in career earnings

• Inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 1979 — at just 24 years old

Roy brought a precision, consistency, and calm-under-fire presence that revolutionized roping. He wasn’t just fast — he was smart. And more importantly, he was kind.

The Legacy He Raised

To Roy, family always came first. And his legacy didn’t end with his own accolades — it multiplied through his sons. Clif, Clint, and Tuf Cooper all went on to become elite ropers themselves, each carrying forward the same fire, humility, and sportsmanship their father modeled.

In 2010, all three sons qualified for the National Finals Rodeo in the same year — a feat that speaks not only to their talent, but to the powerful influence of Roy’s example and mentorship.

A Heart for the Next Generation

For more than four decades, Roy Cooper poured his heart into youth development, hosting the Junior World Roping Championship and mentoring young athletes across the country. His roping camps, his words of wisdom, and the time he gave behind the scenes meant more to many than any buckle or check.

Roy knew what mattered most — passing it on.

A Community Reflects

The rodeo world didn’t just lose a champion — it lost a cornerstone.

Country icon George Strait, a longtime friend, shared:

“We lost our good friend and my hero Roy Cooper. He's with our Lord and Savior now. We'll miss you, amigo.”

8-time world champ Joe Beaver echoed what many feel:

“When you think of tie-down roping, the first name that comes to mind is Roy Cooper. He didn’t just compete — he changed everything.”

Make the Memories

In one of his final interviews, Roy said,

“You get my age, man, all you got is memories… So never pass up a chance to make a memory.”

That’s what Roy Cooper gave us. Not just memories — but milestones. Not just records — but a reason to keep showing up, working hard, and believing in the rodeo way of life.

From the Rowdy Rowels team — and the entire western community —
Thank you, Roy.
We’ll carry your legacy forward, one loop at a time.

Photo Credit: Roy Cooper, Champion Winston Rodeo Cowboy Calf Roper – Historic Images Sports 2.