Mary,

Sailing 1000 miles up the coast in a beachcat is dangerous. Climbing Mt. Everest is dangerous. Sky diving is dangerous. I don't know about the desire for speed being the only factor. As you rightfully pointed out, the boat speed will max out. You can probably get to the boat's hull speed in a lot less wind.

It's the rush. It has more to do with being in the situation where nothing is guaranteed. Wind and water noises confusing your senses. Shaking off the spray just in time to regain your eyesight to quickly ease the traveler. Launching off of waves. Adrenaline pumping, hyper focused on keeping the boat in a groove and feeling how loaded up the boat is.

Is it prudent? No. Of course not.

Is it fun? Absolutely.