Glenn,
I think that this comment is incorrect - reducing the voltage across a motor will not increase the current, it will reduce it. It will also reduce the rotational speed and the torque produced, which could result in stalling - it will also mean the motor is runnig at a lower efficiency.
Dicky, looking at the stats for the system as you outline it.....
The motor is rated at
Off load current: 1.57A - this is the absolute mimimum current the motor will draw if run at the rated voltage. Essenitally it is the current required for the motor to overcome its own internal losses
Maximum current: 69A - this is the stalled current - i.e. at rated voltage with the rotor locked. This is the absolute maximum current the motor will draw at rated voltage. If this is a 12V motor, the motor resistance is 0.17R - on 9.6V this will equate to a stall current of 55.2A - slightly over the ESC rating. Therefore to protect the ESC and the Motor, I would follow earlier advice and use a 45A fuse.
However, you throw another item into the mix....
The battery states its maximum discharge current is 35A - this is not necessarily the maximum current that the battery will supply, but its maximum safe operating current - sustained operation above that limit has the potential to damage the battery because of localised heating effects within the cells.
So....in your place, assuming the motor will give you the speed you want,I would stick with the battery, motor and ESC and fuse the system at 35A possibly using a slow-blow fuse if a suitable one is available, otherwise a striaght 35A fuse.
Wom