At first thought, hunting and bull riding may not seem to have much in common. Think longer, however, and some similarities crystalize. Both are true lifestyle pursuits pitting man against beast – one-on-one challenges creating ample rushes of adrenaline.

Furthermore, bull riders and hunters possess great and special passions for what they do, and are quick to identify themselves as such. Some, like 22-year-old Jasper, Texas, resident Cooper Davis lay claim to both.

In only his second year of competition in the elite Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Built Ford Tough Series, Davis, an avid deer hunter, emerged from a tight title race to become the 2016 PBR World Champion at the Nov. 6 PBR World Finals at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Davis earned $1 million for his accomplishment, and is sponsored by Bloodsport and Wildgame Innovations, two of parent company Plano Synergy’s premier hunting brands offering a variety of products including premium hunting arrows and game cameras

“We couldn’t be happier for Cooper or more proud of his success,” said Pete Angle, Plano Synergy Vice President of Marketing. Angle placed emphasis on Davis’ ability to fight through a barrage of injuries throughout the 2016 season. “His determination in the face of so many significant challenges has been really inspiring to watch… for me and every other PBR fan.”

Davis’ long 2016 bull-riding season wraps up just in time for the cowboy superstar to enjoy a few precious weeks of much-needed rest and relaxation doing what he loves most: spending time at home with his wife and young son.

“It’ll be good to spend a few weeks out of the ring with Kaitlyn and Mack,” Davis said. “I’m definitely looking forward to it.”

Of course, deer season is in full swing in Texas, so the hunter is also hoping to spend some well-earned time in the field.

“My Wildgame Innovations game cameras have been keeping good track of my deer, and I’ve seen a couple bucks that I can’t wait to visit with in person,” Davis said. “My deer hunting season is never as long as I’d like it to be, but those cameras really help me make the most of the short time I have.”

The 2017 PBR BFTS kicks off in early January.