A question of staying

The Mast on Spark is 22 feet of Sitka Spruce. Very strong, very light, and very hard to get anymore. It is in decent shape considering it's age, but it does need work. Not only do I have to split the mast down the centre to glue it back together properly, but I have a question concerning how the stays mount to it.

As they currently meet the mast, there is this stainless steel mount.  It is currently held to the mast with three screws and a rather awkward looking bolt. I am certain that this thru bolt is not supposed to be there, but that was put into place as a kludge after a racing incident. I have a few inquiries out with people more knowledgeable than myself, so I will keep people informed.