Sibling revelry: Stanley Jr. and Conan

Stanley Iakopo Jr., left, and Conan Iakopo proudly show off their No. 1 plates after winning the Mini I Class and Peewee II Class of the M 2022 Monster Energy Point Series during the Marianas Racing Association’s awards banquet last Sept. 10 at the Pacific Islands Club Saipan. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Brothers Stanley Iakopo Jr. and Conan Iakopo dominated their respective divisions in the Marianas Racing Association’s 2022 Monster Energy Point Series.

Both Saipan International School students collected their No. 1 plates during the MRA awards banquet last Sept. 10 at the Pacific Islands Club Saipan.

Stanley Jr. won the Mini I Class with 318 points, followed by Harley Susulin in second place with 298 points and Jonoah Santos in third place with 240 points.

Conan, meanwhile, was 3 points shy of a perfect season in the Peewee II Class with 347 points. He was followed by Keenon Togawa and Kaleb Reyes in second and third place with 304 points and 263 points, respectively. 

The brothers said they felt thrilled coming out on top of the 2022 Monster Energy Point Series.

“Winning the red plate was exciting and I’m very grateful,” said the 11-year-old Stanley Jr. 

Conan, meanwhile, was a bit more sure of his win. 

“It wasn’t a surprise as I knew that I was going to be first place. Easy win,” said the 9-year-old.

The two also seem to cherish winning their respective classes the same year.

“It means a lot because I went through some challenges, crashes, and bike issues, but I was determined to do my best,” said Stanley Jr.

“It means the world to me because it was my first time riding in the Peewee II division,” said Conan.

The Iakopo brothers attributed their success at the Cowtown Race Track this season to their season-long training routine involving other
sports.

“We both stayed in shape because we also play other sports like jujitsu, circuit training, and track and field,” both said. 

Stanley Jr. and Conan dedicated their victory to their parents. 

“We both dedicate this to our Daddy and Mommy. They helped us win this race. Shout out to Angelo from Angelito Toys for getting our bikes ready as well,” they said.

As to defending their No. 1 plates next season, Stanley Jr. and Conan had different but somewhat similar answers this time.

“I won’t be defending my title in the Mini I division as I will be moving up to a higher bike 85cc which is the Minis II class,” said the elder Iakopo.

I’ll keep practicing, that’s how you get better and tune my Husqvarna bike to be faster. But I also want to race in the Minis I Class, 65cc,” said Conan.

Winners of the other classes of the 2022 Monster Energy Point Series will be published in the next issues of Saipan Tribune.