Niigata Ibis Summer Dash G3 draws focus on Pyūro Magic and Kumushirako

Two veteran horses are highlighted ahead of the 26th Ibis Summer Dash G3 at Niigata Racecourse. Pyūro Magic, the 2025 champion, is touted as the favorite for a historic back‑to‑back win. After a modest start to the season, the eight‑year‑old reclaimed form with a dominant sprint‑finish at the recent Hokkaido Sprint, marking his fourth graded victory and confirming his speed and aptitude for the 1000‑metre straight course. Trainers note his ability to win from both front‑running and closing positions, with the only concern being his draw position.

Kumushirako, also eight, impressed in its latest outing at the Adachi Tara Stakes, entering the race from the outer barrier with blinkers for the first time. Despite being the lowest‑priced runner, the horse surged to a close second, prompting trainer Naoto Chiba to highlight the horse’s renewed speed and suitability for the Niigata straight. Kumushirako aims to challenge the previous year’s winner Biriver and add to its record of three out of four wins on the Niigata “thousand‑meter” course.