Conversely, if you get a racing roadbike, bare in mind that 90% of them won't be able to have tyres wider than 25c, mudguards will be extremely difficult to mount (if you even can), they generally won't be able to carry a rack and riding on unsealed roads isn't that fun or safe on 23's...

I say: get that fork, because it's cheap, sturdy and more efficient/useful than a rigid one. Keep your hybrid for touring/commuting/riding down the road, and save up for a roadbike.