General Charley changes tactics

When he won a $50,000 claiming race on Polytrack on July 31 at Arlington Park, General Charley sped to the lead and ran away from his pursuers, but his connections had other ideas Saturday when General Charley took a class hike into the $53,4000 The Tin Man Stakes on turf. Jockey Eddie Perez took a hold of General Charley ($9.60), let Yankee Injunuity set the pace, and then rallied in the stretch for a 1 1/2-length victory.

Trainer Chris Block claimed General Charley for Red Rabbit Racing in June for $35,000, and General Charley has panned out nicely, narrowly losing for a $50,000 tag in his first start after the claim before winning his next two. His owners claimed the $32,040 winner's share of The Tin Man purse, and appear to have a solid horse who handles both Polytrack and grass.

Yankee Injunuity held nicely for second after setting a moderate pace of 49.55 seconds to he half-mile, with 3-2 favorite Demarcation, surprisingly far off the early pace, up late for third. Cape San Blas finished fourth, followed by Pickapocket, who never fired as the second choice, and Tiganello.

General Charley was timed in 1:43.65 for 1o1/16 miles on firm turf.