Scott... It will dry faster the more it is reduced. I suggest ripping it down the center gettting two pieces that are closer to 3/4". You're going to have to put a stiffener piece on the grip and the extra thickness of the board will help that situation. Trust me on this!
After ripping it I'd seal the whole thing with Shellac to prevent checking. Then it can go in a hot box.
If you have the means to weigh the boards, that will be your best means of telling when they are ready.
Weight the pieces before they go in the hot box and every week or two after that. When they stop losing weight they will be ready to work.
Might also add that clamping the boards to a form (caul) will help prevent twisting and other headaches down the road.