Crew weight might be too light, if its blowing, anyone under 120 isn't gonna be able to handle the boat anyway. (140 min weight) so NO

Rig tension is a good idea..... YES

Rudder up or down, I have seen people go from the EZ lock on a newer boat and put the other pintles on their boat so they can use the old style rudders for this very reason. Probably doesnt make much difference, but I would say (NO) to the rudder issue.

Just my unsolicited thought.....