New York State doesn't permit trailers in stake races on a half mile track.
I get the problem with shipping and drawing outside.
The other side of the coin is evident at Buffalo Raceway tomorrow. There are five races for the Excelsior Stakes for three year old trotting colts and fillies (separate divisions). The size of the fields is outrageous but unavoidable--6 horse, 5 horses, 5 horses, 6 horses and 5 horses. Each division will go for $20,000. Of the 27 horses entered, 25 will pick up a check.
It's even worse for the Sire Stakes--purses are $56,900 and up. Three of the races have 5 horse fields; the other has a 4 horse field. All 19 owners will pick up checks. The smallest check will be $2900.
Lots of trainers and owners with NY breds don't love shipping to Buffalo for a variety of reasons. Tomorrow they'll probably be very happy to get some easy money.
From a bettor's perspective the races are unbettable. Do you really want to bet on a four horse race on a half?