As individuals we must choose what we consider extreme and where we set our limits. The limits are not the same for different people. Each of the sailors in the race felt their limits included the conditions they might experience based on the information provided. Again there is only so much information available, so the risk remains. That element of risk is part of what keeps sailors going back for more.
Sailing barely registers in the ratings books.
It's probably not official until Daniel Forster has taken a picture of it. I know you'll enjoy the great images of classic yachts on his web site. And don't overlook his new 1999 calendar, which is where some of the 'tastiest' photographs are showcased. Wind direction Check every 5 or 10 minutes while preparing for your sequence. Get a line sight.