I have not been in very many regattas, but the few I have attended included Aruba (Olympians and professionals taking part), UK F18 Nationals (professionals included) and the Spitfire Europeans (all amateur (as far as I know!)).

In every case, all sailors were willing to help each other out, with loan equipment for repairs, and tips on rigging. I was parked next to one of these sailors throughout one of these events, and they were helpful to everyone who asked. The F18s even had training days beforehand and debriefs during the regatta, given by the paid sailors.

You can't get better than that, and basically for free.

I have also seen some 'unsportsmanlike' behaviour on the race course, by some of these people, but I realised that's all part of the (their) game, and they're pushing it to the limits!

I was very tempted to protest one of the Gold medalists, but figured I was motivated by the chance to say I had done so, rather than because I could benefit by any redress I might have been awarded! On the whole, their presence is very positive.