I agree with Jason that the pole would break if you just fastened the
topping lift and foreguy to the center of the pole without a bridle
(unless you used a large diameter pole which would defeat the
purpose). I also agree that a short spectra bridle is light and
doesn't get in the way hardly at all.
Other ideas to consider: (1) Use a pole launcher mounted on the boom.
Quantum San Francisco makes one that works very well for me. On a
takedown you just shove the pole into the bag along with the topping
lift, bridle and foreguy, and everything is out of the way and you're
clear to tack imediately with no worries about Keepint the jib sheets
out from under the pole. (2) Run the foreguy to the base of the mast
instead of the middle of the foredeck and make it double ended so it
can be trimmed from either side. Mine terminate in Harken camcleats
on either side next to the grab rails about half way back where they
can be accessed by the bow man or aft crew. [The advantage of running
the foreguy to the base of the mast is that you can trim the pole
fore and aft without having to adjust the foreguy. The disadvantage
is that the foreguy angle doesn't hold the pole forward and the bow
person sometimes has to push the pole forward after a set.]
(3)Rig the foreguy with stainless snap shackles which are very light
and can be easily unsnapped if something gets fouled.
Also, I've noticed a lot of fast boats in San Francisco launching out
of the front hatch, but I've never tried it.