Install a brake pressure gauge. I used one when I used to run super comp before the courtesy stage. Every one wanted to stage first so they could roll in a small amount. I would put about 350 lbs. on the rear brakes and bring the throttle up to make the car creep into the beams and nail the trans brake. Worked very well until we replaced the pads with metallic pads. They lacked cold holding power. If you could control the brake pressure you should be able to tighten up your reaction times.