High Nr & Camp Freddie...
I wouldn't classify ALL pilots that attempt to break records as "Headline Seeking Amateurs." You will probably find that most attempts were planned years in advance, had well thought out contingency plans, and were rehearsed several times. Also, MOST participants in these attempts probably did everything reasonable to achieve their goals (within their limits). I doubt any of the folks you've rescued intended to fail... do you? If human beings never attempted "the impossible," none of us would be flying today. My 2 cents.