Hi Mike, Sure you will have lots of fun out of your 235.
The bowsprit/jib stick which looks very much like a spinnaker pole, has a strengthened section where it goes through the steel hoop at the bow, (also used for raising/lowering the mast). It might be worth asking the previous owner for the Owners Manual if he hasn't given you it already. The manual gives the manufacturer as 'PLKY', but I couldn't find a length in there, will try and remember to measure for your. I have a laser, and am not sure if the topmast would be man enough for the job, The strengthened section is presumably to stop it buckling at the hoop (I assume you have one and a halyard?)
If you contact Bill Parker in Boston, he may be able to help, though he has been retired for some years now. I have his number as 01205 365272, but it must be 7 years since I last spoke to him.
I use an extensible whisker pole (not in the spec) Its probably about 2m long extended but will try and measure for you
Regards (P235 #29 Beaulieu)
Jim Hamilton