I have seen three dismasted cats in the last year or so... the last one nearing dark on the lake last night. I saw a vessel sitting low in the water with someone hollering and waving a flag... with few other boats in sight, we diverted to check it out. On closer inspection, it was a Prindle 16 with the rig on the tramp.
We sailed close enough to communicate, and saw a powerboat seemingly heading over at low speed, so we offered to check with the powerboaters, and double back to assist as necessary. The powerboat was indeed heading over (slowly), so after standing off nearby and ensuring solution, we went on our way.
As it was, we were pretty late off the water that night, and a tow would have made that even longer... but it begs the question of how to properly execute a rescue tow.
Randii (I think i'd just use the anchoring bridle I have to put the load on the ends of my main crossbeam, and advise the same on their end.... maybe use my stretchy nylon anchor rope to cushion that connection.)