I've done this before and just have the luggage "stopped" in the city I "need" it in. If asked, just explain there are items needed for a brief meeting which cannot be carried on and must be checked.

I like Colin's story too...

Last time I did this (stopped luggage at an intermediate point), it took the agent around 20 seconds (on the computer) to make it happen and I was already airside. They retagged the bag...

Pat