You must be prepared to complete the race without help, even with surprises.  Those who do not feel competent to address unforeseen situations should not venture offshore.

That rather harsh statement aside, we take seriously the moral and legal obligation of mariners to come to each other's aid.  The Pac Cup organizers, comms boat, and fellow sailors expect to work to provide communications links, advice, moral support, or direct physical aid where this can be done effectively and safely.