ALBUQUERQUE, NM—SEPTEMBER 6, 2010—Van Zant recovered from a bumpy start to win the $30,000 Manuel Lujan Stakes on Monday at The Downs in Albuquerque.

Racing for owner/trainer Harvey Baeza, Van Zant completed the 350 yards in :17.060 seconds to earn a 109 speed index and defeated Banjo Bob by a nose.

The Hawkinson 3-year-old was bred in California by Steve D Burns, DVM from the On A High mare Pretty Jet High. Jesse Lavario was aboard for the ride that earned $18,000.

Owned by Martin Perez, Bonjo Bob had to settle for second while picking up $6,000. The Azoom gelding is trained by Salvadar Vallejos and was ridden by Alfonso Fuentes.

El Campecino was ¾ 's back in the third for owner Ramon Gonzalez, Jr., Ramon Gonzalez trains with Alejandro Medellin riding. He earned $3,000.

Completing the field were Apollos First Down, Jess Good, Winners Cartel, Lady Blue Angel and Streakin Six Corona. Fire Higher was scratched.