On a skiff I understand the usage of a dolphin striker: the pole is not end supported as on a cat, hence it will see high bending moments and hence it needs a structure, which transfers the bending moment in compression loads on the tube and tension on the wire. If not, the bending moment would destroy the pole.
On a cat however, the pole is supporte at the end (where the spi is attached and at the jib. The pole will not see bending moments, but only compression: The spi up and side forces are taken by pole shrouds. Since they are in a forward direction, they produce a compression load in the tube. The efficient buckling length of the pole is reduced by the bridle wires at the jib.
So I do not understand why they are using a dolphin striker.

Cheers,

Klaus