Is it possible sync only iPad-optimized apps to my iPad?
Under the Apps tab in iTunes (when your iPad is plugged in), you should be able to sort your applications by type, using the dropdown box above the list of apps. I believe you can then move down the list with your arrow keys and press the spacebar to check/uncheck the ones you don't want. It's not quite automatic, but I think this may be the fastest way to do it. 

(I can't verify 100% the key presses here; I'm on a machine right now that doesn't have iTunes installed.)