Iakopo brothers dominate divisions

Stanley Iakopo Jr., left, and Conan Briggeman Iakopo pose during a break in the July 2022 Monster Energy Point Series Race last Sunday at the Cowtown Race Track.(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Brothers Stanley Iakopo Jr. and Conan Briggeman Iakopo ruled their respective divisions in the July 2022 Monster Energy Point Series Race at the Cowtown Race Track.

Stanley, who rides a 2020 Yamaha YZ65, topped the Mini I Class after winning boths heats for a perfect score of 50 points. Harley Susulin was the only other finisher in the division and got 44 points. 

Aboard his trusty 2018 50cc Husqvarna, Conan, meanwhile, was the winner in the Peewee II Class after also topping both races for a perfect score of 50 points. Keeno Togawa and Kaleb Reyes followed suit with 44 points and 40 points, respectively.  

The Iakopo brothers shared that winning their divisions was a great experience.

“It feels amazing. It gives me the confidence to move up to the next race class next season,” said 11-year-old Stanley. 

“It feels good. I am ready to end the season with another big win,” said the 9-year-old Conan. 

The two agreed that what made their wins more fulfilling was that the track in the Marianas Racing Association-organized race was less than ideal last Sunday.

“We thought the track would be tacky from days of rain, but ended up drying up. It rained during heat 2.”

Stanley and Conan also attributed their victory last Sunday to being in optimum physical condition. 

“We maintain cardio, strength, and conditioning to avoid arm pumps and build agility. Thank you also to our dad for always training us,” they said.

Asked to whom they are dedicating their wins in the July points race, Stanley and Conan had differing answers.

“I dedicate all my wins to my mom and dad and Angelo because they always help me,” said the former.

“I dedicated the win to myself because I want the No. 1 plate trophy,” said Conan.

Stanley said he got his start in the sport after seeing people do stunts. “I wanted to be like them so I joined motocross.”

For Conan, he took up the sport to follow his brother’s footsteps. 

“Stanley Jr. got me interested in the sport. Also, I made new friends.”

For the two Saipan International School students what makes competing in motocross races more worthwhile is they get to enjoy the ride together. 

“It’s very nice. These are good memories that we will never forget and it’s all brotherly love,” said Stanley.

“It feels good because my brother takes care of me,” added Conan. 

In the Peewee I Class, Roseha Untalan ruled the roost with a perfect 50 points followed by Jarell Untalan with 22 points.