if the hook is on the windward side the mast rotation will actually push the hook into the sail. the last thing you need as it starts to blow like snot is a hole in the sail. it will provide a place for a huge rip to start. remember, as it starts to blow you will harden up on the outhaul and cunningham/downhaul. this will flatten the sail to depower, but will also tighten the cloth. under these conditions a small hole will become a big hole. i think what you need is a halyard that can take the load. that way, you can lower the sail as much as you need (like it is done on a monohull). i believe the hobie 16 used a loaded wire halyard with an extra ball for reefing.